There have been a number of claims made regarding hydrogen peroxide's efficacy in treating everything from athlete's foot to AIDS. Proponents of these cures often advocate the use of hydrogen peroxide as "oxygen therapy." While hydrogen peroxide has long been known to be an effective bleach and disinfectant, there is dissent within both the mainstream and alternative medical communities as to how beneficial or harmful hydrogen peroxide is when taken internally. The FDA has not approved any uses for hydrogen peroxide that involve injection or ingestion, although there is anecdotal evidence that a few drops of a 3 percent solution diluted into at least 8 oz. of water can benefit a number of conditions.
Certainly the safest uses for hydrogen peroxide are basic uses most of us are familiar with. Hydrogen peroxide can be used as mouthwash when treating trench mouth or thrush; it can also be combined with baking soda to clean and whiten teeth. Too much hydrogen peroxide coming into contact with a mucous membrane on a daily basis, however, can cause irritation over a period of time. The hydrogen peroxide/baking soda combination is also an effective itch remedy, used on chicken pox and mosquito bites.
As an accepted anti-microbial agent, hydrogen peroxide can be used effectively to clean most surfaces in the home. Keep in mind that it is a mild bleach and may leech away color from surfaces it comes into contact with. Its bleaching properties can be used to remove stains from fabric or to lighten hair. Lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are basically safe for use around the house, especially when diluted.
Probably the most common use for hydrogen peroxide is as a wound cleanser for minor injuries. Used in this capacity, hydrogen peroxide does kill germs, but it also causes slight tissue damage when poured on inner layers of skin. Treating a cut with hydrogen peroxide will prevent infection but prolong healing.
What to Look for
Hydrogen peroxide (chemical formula H2O2) is available at most grocery stores, pharmacies and health food stores. It is available in concentrations ranging from 3 to 35 percent. Hydrogen peroxide is usually packaged in a brown bottle that prevents exposure to light. Light breaks down hydrogen peroxide quickly; the compound requires darkness to be successfully stored for any length of time. Higher concentrations are typically more easily found in health food stores.
Common Pitfalls
There has been some advocacy for the use of higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Concentration above 30 percent, however, is considered a hazardous chemical and should be handled accordingly. Some people are concerned about the presence of preservatives and stabilizers in hydrogen peroxide and seek out pure hydrogen peroxide. If you are unsure as to the purity of your hydrogen peroxide, pour a small amount into a glass of water and observe for color changes. If the water turns slightly yellow, there are some stabilizers mixed in with the compound.
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