Agent Orange is a herbicide and defoliant chemical, one of the "tactical use" Rainbow Herbicides. It is widely known for its use by the U.S. military as part of its herbicidal warfare program, Operation Ranch Hand, during the Vietnam War from 1961 to 1971.

What does Agent Orange do to the human body?

Short-term exposure to dioxin can cause darkening of the skin, liver problems and a severe acne-like skin disease called chloracne. Additionally, dioxin is linked to type 2 diabetes, immune system dysfunction, nerve disorders, muscular dysfunction, hormone disruption and heart disease.

What is Agent Orange and why is it so called?

Agent Orange refers to a specific blend of herbicides used during the Vietnam War. The name “Agent Orange” came from the identifying orange stripe around the 55-gallon drums in which the herbicide was stored. ... During the conflict, Agent Orange was the blend most widely used.