Although hydrogen peroxide is a weak acid, it has very powerful oxidizing properties. The acid looks very similar to water. The concentrated form of peroxide is quite dangerous, but its diluted form is quite useful. It is strong bleaching properties and is used to whiten paper. It is also used as an antiseptic, disinfectant and oxidizer.

In nature, the chemical is present in both snow and rain. Plants produce this acid during photosynthesis; and even fruits and vegetables are known to contain it. However, the maximum production takes place in the ocean via planktons. It is even present in humans and is one of the ingredients in human milk, especially colostrum. It helps to enhance the immune system of a newborn baby.

For commercial use, hydrogen peroxide is produce in a variety of grades depending on the use. Usually pharmaceuticals use 3.5 percent hydrogen peroxide, while beauticians tend to use the 6 percent one. In rocket fuel, 90 percent grade is used. For internal medical use, only the 35 percent grade is advisable.

While it is used in many industrial processes like paper making, textiles, leather, electronics, purification of drinking water, treatment of waste water, mining, medically it is used for various ailments.

According to some health experts, the chemical is an important metabolite. Right after the First World War when an epidemic of pneumonia struck people, dilute hydrogen peroxide was given intravenously to those who had contracted the disease. Many studies indicate that hydrogen peroxide can be an effective treatment for various bacterial-related mental ailments and also poliomyelitis.

Even today, hospitals use peroxide to sterilize ambulances, toilets and bathroom due to its antiseptic properties. Also, surgical and medical equipment are sterilized with it. The US FDA has approved hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash and you can get many dental and oral products that contain it.

Certain skin-related conditions like acne, cold sores, insect bites, pimples and small burns can be healed with the help of hydrogen peroxide. It is also used to treat arthritis as it kills anaerobic bacteria that cause the arthritis by supplying oxygen. It can be effectively used to treat viral infections, bacterial infections, fungal infections, yeast infections, allergies, gingivitis, ulcers, pneumonia, sinusitis, certain problems with the digestive tract and also anemia.

Besides these, there are many other medical uses of hydrogen peroxide.

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