The Uses for Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring liquid with a molecular composition of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms (H202). The extra oxygen atom gives hydrogen peroxide a boost that turns it into an oxidizer. Food grade hydrogen peroxide has a potency of 35 percent, while topical peroxide (for external use only) has 3 percent potency, and may contain additives and stabilizers. Food grade peroxide is caustic and needs to be diluted prior to use.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

The oxidation properties of food grade hydrogen peroxide make it useful as a cleansing agent. Used as a pre-treatment for stained laundry, especially organic stains like blood and grass, peroxide breaks down and dissolves the stain. Food grade peroxide will kill bacteria and fungus. Used to clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces, a 3 percent solution, placed in a spray bottle, will kill harmful bacteria, including E. coli, viral agents, and mold and mildew spores. Hydrogen peroxide can work as an alternative to chlorine bleach, and can be added to hot tubs and dishwashers.

Garden and Agriculture

Hydroponic growers use hydrogen peroxide to safely purify large quantities of water. Other gardeners use a diluted solution of 3 percent peroxide as a fertilizer and leaf spray for plants. A solution of peroxide and sugar creates a natural insect repellent for food and vegetable crops. A stronger peroxide solution kills weeds and invasive plants. Soaking seeds in a 3 percent solution overnight before planting encourages faster sprouting. The oxidation helps to break down the seed hull, allowing the seed to germinate faster. Roots and cuttings benefit from the addition of peroxide to the water they are contained in, as the extra oxygen prevents algae growth and speeds up development.

Personal Hygiene

Using hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash freshens breath, as it kills the bacteria that causes halitosis. Mixed with salt and baking soda, hydrogen peroxide works as a whitening, odor-controlling toothpaste. Soaking your feet in a peroxide solution helps soften calluses and corns, and heals minor cuts and abrasions. Soak toothbrushes in a hydrogen peroxide solution to keep them sterilized and bacteria-free. A weak solution used on the hair brings out natural highlights.

Medical Uses

Hydrogen peroxide was once a basic first aid item, treating minor scratches and skin wounds. Today, physicians discourage this practice because peroxide degrades the surrounding tissues, causing more harm than good. Other medical uses for hydrogen peroxide include removal of ear obstructions, especially hardened earwax, and fighting gingivitis, where a peroxide mouthwash helps control tissue degradation and halitosis.

According to CancerTutor.com, the use of peroxide as a cancer treatment is very controversial. The theory is that because cancer cells do not multiply in an environment that is high in oxygen, ingesting hydrogen peroxide will improve the bodys cellular oxygen levels and inhibit cancer growth.