Ethical Ball Python analog?

[JLC]

My point is I'm willing to try it on my arm, but that is worthless if it doesn't react similarly in the snake.

ahhh...so you're trying to figure out what YOU can test stuff on before applying it to your ball python?

I would say in that case, there is no ethical analog. You're correct that your own arm would not be very useful. Rather than trying to test unknown substances, I would suggest asking people with a lot of experience and training....like a vet.