Evidence supporting the use of: Hydrogen peroxide
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Hydrogen peroxide has traditionally been used as a topical antiseptic for minor wounds, including bites and stings, primarily due to its ability to release oxygen and create a bubbling action that appears to clean the wound. Historically, the foaming action was believed to help remove debris, bacteria, and contaminants from the wound site. However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in treating bites and stings specifically is limited. Modern research has shown that while hydrogen peroxide is effective at killing a broad range of microorganisms, it can also damage viable tissue and delay wound healing, particularly in deeper or more severe wounds. Medical guidelines now generally recommend milder cleansing methods, such as washing with soap and water, for bites and stings. The traditional use persists, but most contemporary healthcare providers advise against hydrogen peroxide for this purpose due to its cytotoxic effects. Therefore, the use of hydrogen peroxide for bites and stings is rooted in tradition rather than robust scientific validation, and the quality of evidence supporting its benefit for these specific conditions is low.

More about Hydrogen peroxide
More about Bites and Stings

Products containing Hydrogen peroxide

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.