The Medicinal Uses of Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, or H202, is a colorless and odorless compound that is found naturally within the atmosphere -- in rainwater -- and throughout the human body. The presence of two oxygen molecules means that it can be used to treat a variety of ailments and its ability to kill bacteria has been well-documented. Over the last 100 years, it has been used in the treatment of typhoid fever, cholera, ulcers, tuberculosis and asthma. It can be used topically or internally, although its internal use is still a controversial topic -- given that it can be fatal, at concentrated doses.

Hydrogen Peroxide Reactions Within the Body

• Hydrogen peroxide is used within the human body to help a number of chemical reactions take place. Vitamin C produces hydrogen peroxide -- which in turn, produces prostaglandins -- which help to fight off infections. In the vaginal tract and colon, lactobacillus produces hydrogen peroxide to destroy harmful bacteria and viruses which wards off colon disease, vaginitis and bladder infections.

Emphysema

• One disease that hydrogen peroxide can be used for treating, is emphysema. This lung disease, which destroys the alveoli air sacks in the lungs, is normally caused by smoking; and can lead to high blood pressure and eventually heart failure. It works by bubbling the oxygen from the hydrogen peroxide up through the mucus membranes of the lungs. When the patient coughs, they expel the mucus and other material that has built up in the lungs -- clearing their surface and destroying the bacterial infections -- aiding breathing.

Softening Earwax

• Hydrogen peroxide can also be used in the treatment of earwax; and is available in a number available products in pharmacies and shops throughout the world. It works by slowly softening and breaking up the earwax that may have become impacted in the inner ear.

Candida

• Hydrogen peroxide has been known to help cure skin infections; such as candida and thrush. It can be diluted by adding a few drops of 3 percent peroxide to a glass of water -- alternatively, it can be taken intravenously. The hydrogen peroxide then kills the unwanted fungus in the gut, while promoting the stomach's healthy bacteria. It can also be used to bathe-in to help skin infection.