We’ve all used Listerine at different times during the day to make our breath smell more pleasant. But what else can it do? As home remedies become more popular by the day, many are sharing surprising uses of Listerine. Consisting of helpful essential oils like menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate, and eucalyptol, as well as alcohol, Listerine provides alternative uses ranging anywhere from the application on the body to functioning as a detergent or flea repellent.
Background on Listerine:
How did Listerine come about in history? Listerine commenced from surgery antiseptic in 1865, when Dr. Joseph Lister became the first surgeon to use triturated antiseptic while performing an operation. Hence, Dr. Joseph Lawrence, founder of Listerine, coined the brand name after Dr. Lister. In 1879, Listerine was formulated as an “antiseptic for use in surgeries and bathing wounds.” It wasn’t until 1914 that Listerine was marketed as a mouthwash.
1. Listerine on the Skin:
As an antiseptic, Listerine can be used on parts of the body other than just the mouth. Dental Hygienist and Oral Health Coach Carrie Ibbetson says, “Listerine is my go-to source for stopping bug bites from itching like crazy.”
The mouthwash can also be dabbed on psoriasis, allergies, poison ivy and acne. One user shared with The Seattle Times: “I have tried all types of antibiotics and topical prescription on the market. Nothing has worked as well as applying Listerine morning and night.” So the next time you need to look for a topical ointment, try giving Listerine a go!
2. Listerine for Hair Care:
Listerine can also be helpful in controlling dandruff and spread of lice by soaking hair in the solution and massaging the scalp. Try doing a hair mask with Listerine while you wait for your face mask to dry, killing two birds with one stone.
3. Listerine Foot Bath:
Recommended by Top 10 Remedies, Listerine can also help alleviate onychomycosis, or toenail fungus. According to Medical News Today, the essential oils in Listerine are antifungal, allowing it to be used as a disinfectant to treat mild cases of toenail fungus or athlete’s foot.
Listerine also contains methyl salicylate, a compound similar to chemical exfoliant salicylic acid, which many people use for blemishes and dull, uneven skin. Using it as a foot bath will make your skin feel like a baby’s bottom.
4. Listerine on Animals:
Similarly, Listerine can also be applied to animal skins. Some dog owners who hesitate to use harsh flea-treating chemicals opt to use the mouthwash as a flea repellant. Horse owners can use the solution to clean horse hooves and legs, clearing rain rot and repugnant fungus.
5. Listerine as a Freshener:
The alcohol and the pleasant smell of Listerine can act as a deodorant to keep the body dry and fresh, especially in warm weather. Smelling cool and minty, you’ll be the most popular person in the crowd. Furthermore, placing a Listerine-soaked towel at the bottom of a garbage can also keep irksome odor in check.
6. Listerine in the Toilet:
Along with deodorizing, pouring half a cup of mouthwash down the toilet and scrubbing a little with a toilet brush can also clean debris in the bowl and give it a great shine. If you have too much Listerine at home, or just don’t like a particular type you bought, try this. Put it to good use rather than throwing it away!
7. Listerine on the Screen:
Aside from cleaning the toilet, Listerine can also be used with a small cloth towel to wipe away fingerprint smudges and grime on glass screens, leaving the surface radiant and without the “chemical smell.” Remember to not use it on liquid crystal displays (LCDs) because the alcohol can damage the screens! But try wiping your phone down with Listerine at the end of the day to avoid spreading germs. We carry our phones everywhere, so they’re just as dirty as our hands.
8. Listerine for Toothbrush Hygiene:
Similar to how Listerine battles germs in the mouth, it can do the same on the toothbrush. It would be paradoxical to use a bacteria-filled tool to clean more bacteria in the mouth. Maintaining a hygienic toothbrush by soaking the head in a glass of mouthwash for a couple of hours is an effective way to keep both parties happy.
Conclusion:
As a readily accessible household item, Listerine epitomized convenient and economical remedies for many unexpected stressful situations. It’s very beneficial for people to share other simple alternative solutions to improve the quality of life for everyone.
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