Chemistry Question #3704

Josh, a 14 year old male from New York asks on November 19, 2006,

If hydrogen peroxide is bad for cells, why is it good for cuts? Also, how is it a good treatment for cancer?

viewed 14819 times

The answer

Barry Shell answered on December 8, 2006

It's bad, but not that bad. It's better to have it kill the bacteria in a cut, even if it damages a few human cells. It's still worth it.

As for the cancer question, hydrogen peroxide is not endorsed by the major cancer agencies and authorities, though some alternative practitioners make claims that it works...

Add to or comment on this answer using the form below.

Note: All submissions are moderated prior to posting.

If you found this answer useful, please consider making a small donation to science.ca.