Rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are both antiseptics and disinfectants. Although they are similar, they should not be used in place of one another and care should be used when using either product. Rubbing alcohol is usually a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol that is commonly rubbed on the skin. Hydrogen peroxide has one more oxygen atom than water, and is normally sold to the general public in a 3 percent solution with water.
Rubbing Alcohol Uses
The main use of rubbing alcohol is as an antiseptic solution. It is commonly used on medical devices to kill any bacteria that may be hanging around. It is also frequently used by medical professionals to cleanse the skin of germs before piercing the skin with a needle. According to "Reader's Digest," rubbing alcohol has many uses other than medical purposes such as removing ticks, and cleaning sticky substances. Electronic devices are routinely cleaned with rubbing alcohol because it evaporates quickly and cleans well.
Hydrogen Peroxide Uses
Hydrogen peroxide is well known as a disinfectant, but is also known for its bleaching abilities and is used to combat stains. Some use it as an oral rinse, as its bleaching properties may result in whiter teeth. According to Dr. David G Williams, hydrogen peroxide can also be a source of oxygen therapy for your plants by mixing an ounce of peroxide with a quart of water and applying to household plants. Most amazingly, Dr. Williams stated that hydrogen peroxide can be used to help treat emphysema patients through oral inhalation or intravenous injections. This should be done only by specialized physicians with experience.
Use on Cuts
Due to the antiseptic properties that both of these products contain, they are regularly used on cuts, scrapes and wounds. However, this practice is scrutinized and "Reader's Digest" points out that both of these disinfectants can be poisonous to the cells and may kill healthy tissue. According to an article by Miller, J. Michael, et al., hydrogen peroxide can help loosen debris in wounds because of its bubbling action, but supports the claims of the toxicity to healing tissue.
Rubbing Alcohol Warnings
Rubbing alcohol is considered a flammable product and care should be used to assure that it is kept away from heat or fire sources. Do not confuse isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol for a grain or ethyl alcohol, as ingestion could result in gastric disturbances and even death. Avoid the eyes and deep wounds, as this could cause damage.
Hydrogen Peroxide Warnings
If using hydrogen peroxide as an oral rinse, do not swallow the liquid. Deep wounds should not be exposed to this product and it should be kept away from the eyes. Do not inject hydrogen peroxide or use in any medical manner other than use on minor cuts without the direction of a physician.
