Apothecary vs. Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide: Differences & Safe Uses

Reports pervade the web about the possible health benefits of hydrogen peroxide (H202), with sharp distinctions in use and availability between the regular 3 percent apothecary, or pharmaceutical, grade and 35 percent food-grade varieties. Among health authorities, however, debate persists about the merits and safety of both kinds of hydrogen peroxide for internal and external use.

External Use

• Many people wash, bathe and rinse with pharmaceutical-grade hydrogen peroxide, as well as clean out their ears with it. People may also use pharmaceutical-grade H202 for house cleaning and to oxygenate gardens. The food preparation and packaging industries use food-grade H202 to sanitize facilities.

Internal Use

• Food-grade hydrogen peroxide is the only kind recommended for using internally, but the FDA warns that consumption of any grade of H202 could be dangerous. Before taking food-grade H202 internally, dilute it from 35 percent down to 3 percent by putting just a few drops in a glass full of water.

Hazards

• Possible side effects of both grades of hydrogen peroxide include nausea and vomiting, internal bleeding and ulcers. Additional potential side effects of food-grade H202 include embolism, stroke, paraplegia and death. Food-grade H202 is considered hazardous material to ship.