Gargling Hydrogen Peroxide: Benefits, Uses and Safety Precautions

Gargling With Hydrogen Peroxide: Benefits, Safety, and How to Use

Gargling with diluted hydrogen peroxide has gained popularity as a home remedy that is claimed to have a wide range of health benefits. Some advocates suggest gargling with hydrogen peroxide to help treat respiratory infections, throat irritation, bad breath, gum inflammation, and even whitening teeth.

While there is some research to show hydrogen peroxide's antibacterial effects, its use as a gargle has risks as well. Understanding the potential benefits alongside the safety precautions allows you to make an informed decision about whether to try this home remedy.

What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a chemical made of hydrogen and oxygen. It has powerful oxidizing and bleaching properties.

In high concentrations (generally over 10%), hydrogen peroxide is corrosive and must be handled carefully. But typical household solutions contain only 3-6% hydrogen peroxide and can be safely used for disinfecting minor cuts.

When hydrogen peroxide encounters cells (from microbes, mucous, or injured tissue), it breaks down into oxygen and water and releases free oxygen radicals. This gives it antimicrobial and cleansing effects.

Hydrogen Peroxide as a Mouthwash

Hydrogen peroxide has long been investigated as an oral antiseptic due to its oxygenating effects. Low concentrations around 0.5-1% have typically been studied for use as a mouthwash.

Proponents claim that gargling diluted hydrogen peroxide may:

• Kill bacteria in the mouth, throat, and tonsils
• Prevent infection transmission by eliminating respiratory droplets
• Treat gum inflammation and prevent gingivitis
• Reduce bad breath by killing odor-causing bacteria
• Whiten teeth through oxidation
• Clean the mouth and heal mouth sores

However, more research is still needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of using hydrogen peroxide as a long-term daily mouthwash.

Effectiveness Against Respiratory Infections

There has been some research showing hydrogen peroxide's ability to inactivate viruses that cause upper respiratory illnesses like colds and the flu. Recent lab studies found evidence that hydrogen peroxide may also inhibit coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

However, most studies so far showing antiviral effects have been limited to lab settings using concentrated hydrogen peroxide on isolated viral samples. More research is needed to demonstrate effectiveness and safety in humans.

The CDC states there is no evidence that gargling prevents respiratory illness. Proper handwashing, mask wearing, and physical distancing remain the recommended methods to avoid transmission.

Oral Health Benefits

There is some evidence that diluted hydrogen peroxide may have benefits for oral health when used occasionally. Potential benefits include:

• Killing bacteria - Hydrogen peroxide shows effectiveness against certain bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.
• Controlling gum inflammation - Hydrogen peroxide's cleansing action may help with swollen, inflamed gums.
• Reducing mouth sores - Gargling may help heal minor mouth lesions.
• Tooth whitening - Peroxide releases oxidizing agents that break down stains.

However, more research is still needed to confirm these effects. Additionally, frequent long-term use carries safety concerns.

How to Gargle Hydrogen Peroxide

If you wish to try gargling with hydrogen peroxide, follow these guidelines:

• Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with water (use equal parts to start).
• Swish 1-2 tablespoons of diluted solution in your mouth for 30-60 seconds, then spit out.
• Do not swallow the hydrogen peroxide.
• Start by gargling 1-3 times per week and see how your mouth tissue tolerates it.
• Don't exceed once daily use.

Note: Do not use any concentration higher than 3% hydrogen peroxide. And children under 12 years old should not use peroxide due to swallowing risks.

Safety Precautions

While diluted hydrogen peroxide is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, gargling with it still carries some risks and side effects:

• Mouth irritation - Peroxide can cause temporary stinging or soreness.
• Gum and tooth sensitivity - Frequent exposure may inflame oral tissue.
• Enamel damage - Long-term use could weaken tooth enamel.
• Skin burns - High concentrations can burn skin if spilled.
• Eye damage - Rinse eyes with water immediately if splashed.
• Ingestion concerns - Swallowing can cause stomach irritation.
• Breathing issues - Inhaling fumes may cause coughing or choking.

Stop using as a mouthwash immediately if you experience any concerning reactions. Seek medical advice for severe side effects.

Who Should Not Use Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Avoid gargling with hydrogen peroxide if you have:

• Mouth sores or irritation
• Bleeding gums
• Gingivitis or gum disease
• Recent oral surgery
• Respiratory illness (risk of inhalation)
• Digestive problems like GERD (risk of ingestion)
• Known hydrogen peroxide allergy

Pregnant women should also not gargle with hydrogen peroxide, as its safety is unknown.

Other Potential Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide

In addition to use as a mouthwash, some people use diluted hydrogen peroxide for various other home remedies, like:

Disinfecting Minor Wounds

As an antimicrobial, hydrogen peroxide can be effective at cleaning and preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Always use a diluted 3% solution and rinse thoroughly.

Earwax Removal

Hydrogen peroxide may help soften and dissolve excess earwax when used as ear drops. Tilt your head and use a few drops of a diluted 50/50 peroxide/water solution.

Removing Stains on Teeth

Due to its whitening abilities, some people use hydrogen peroxide occasionally as a stain-removing mouthwash. However, frequent long-term use may damage tooth enamel.

Household Disinfecting

In household settings, dilute solutions of hydrogen peroxide may be used to disinfect and sanitize surfaces. However, most claims of effectiveness lack evidence.

Hair Lightening

Applying hydrogen peroxide to the hair is a commonly known method of bleaching hair to a lighter color. However, this practice carries hair damage risks if not done properly.

The Bottom Line

Hydrogen peroxide as a home remedy shows promise and there is some evidence to support certain uses, especially as a short-term oral antiseptic. However, its effectiveness and safety as a long-term daily gargle are still in question.

Proceed with caution, stick to diluted solutions, and watch for any adverse reactions if you wish to gargle with hydrogen peroxide. And always discuss with your dentist or doctor first if you have any oral health conditions.

While hydrogen peroxide may offer potential benefits, proper oral hygiene, treatment by a dentist, and safe use are key to maintaining health. Further research is still needed on hydrogen peroxide as a preventative health measure or treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.