Last Updated on February 28, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that chlorine dioxide can cure dozens of health conditions. We fact-checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A Facebook post claims that chlorine dioxide cures dozens of health conditions.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
What is Chlorine Dioxide?
Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is a chemical compound composed of one chlorine atom and two oxygen atoms. It is a yellow to reddish-yellow gas at room temperature and pressure, and it dissolves easily in water. Chlorine dioxide is a powerful oxidising agent and biocide, meaning it can effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. It is often used as a disinfectant in water treatment processes, particularly for municipal water supplies and in industries such as food processing and healthcare.
Chlorine dioxide has several advantages over other disinfectants like chlorine bleach. It is effective over a wide pH range, it does not produce harmful disinfection byproducts like chlorinated compounds can, and it does not leave a residual taste or odor in treated water when used properly. However, it is important to handle chlorine dioxide with care, as it can be hazardous in concentrated form and should only be used according to recommended guidelines and safety precautions.
Can humans consume chlorine dioxide?
No. Chlorine dioxide is a powerful oxidizing agent that is used in various industrial applications, including water treatment and bleaching processes. However, it is not safe for human consumption. Ingesting chlorine dioxide can cause serious health problems, including irritation and corrosion of the gastrointestinal tract, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even damage to the red blood cells, leading to potential organ failure and death in severe cases.
Chlorine dioxide was also touted as a cure for COVID-19 during the peak of the outbreak. However, this is not the case. Despite some misleading claims online, chlorine dioxide is not a safe or effective treatment for any medical condition when ingested. It is essential to follow the advice of healthcare professionals and avoid ingesting substances like chlorine dioxide that are not intended for human consumption.
Can chlorine dioxide cure dozens of health conditions?
No. Chlorine dioxide cannot cure dozens of health conditions. While it is used in very small, controlled amounts to disinfect water, it is unsafe and harmful for human consumption.
Taking large doses of chlorine dioxide, sometimes sold under the name Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS), can cause serious health problems, including:
- Severe vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Chlorine dioxide mixed into mouthwash has been studied a lot for fighting dental infections and reducing the amount of virus in the saliva of people with SARS-CoV-2. A study found it somewhat reduced the virus in saliva after four weeks, similar to hydrogen peroxide mouthwash but not as much as others. However, the FDA criticized the company for suggesting it could treat COVID-19 without enough proof. In 2023, a family in Florida was convicted of fraud for claiming chlorine dioxide could cure many diseases, including COVID-19. Similar claims were made in England in 2015. Experts warn against believing these claims without solid evidence.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA website) has repeatedly warned consumers against using chlorine dioxide products, stating that they are unsafe and ineffective for any disease treatment or prevention.
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