About Rubbing Alcohol
- Unlike grain alcohol, which is used to manufacture alcoholic beverages, wood alcohol, which is used to manufacture isopropol alcohol, cannot be consumed or ingested. If consumed, wood alcohol can lead to blindness or even death. Isopropol alcohol should only be applied externally, and if ingested, a poison control center or hospital should be contacted immediately for emergency assistance.
- Isopropol alcohol can be used as part of a mixture to clean windows and appliances. When used in combination with vinegar and baking soda, isopropol alcohol is a great cleaning agent. Surfaces cleaned with isopropol alcohol, baking soda and vinegar are safe for pets and kids; allow the surface to air dry before allowing small children or pets to handle appliances and household items cleaned with the solution. Additional cleaning or rinsing is not necessary. The same mixture can be used to clean computer keyboards.
- According to arthritistypesonline.com ("Arthritis Types Online"), isopropol alcohol can be applied to the skin during "bouts of pain." When used in combination with cayenne pepper, isopropol alcohol releases endorphins to reduce pain naturally. Combine 1 qt. of isopropol alcohol with 1 oz. of cayenne pepper. Apply liberally to the skin using a cloth, or soak aching feet and hands in the solution. Use to reduce joint pain associated with arthritis.
- Use isopropol alcohol to rid the scalp of lice or to remove ticks from a dog. To remove lice, use an over-the-counter product as directed. When you finish following the directions for the over-the-counter product, pour isopropol alcohol over the scalp or use a cloth to wet the scalp with the alcohol. The alcohol will ensure that all the lice are removed.
To make removing ticks from a dog easier, dab the tick with a cloth moistened with isopropol alcohol. Once the tick loosens its grip, remove the bug with a pair of tweezers. You may be able to see this action or you may have to continue dabbing and pulling until the tick is removed. - Use isopropol alcohol to stretch leather shoes. Apply a cotton ball soaked in isopropol alcohol to the area of the shoe that is tight. Wait several minutes and then place the shoe back on your foot. Walk several feet to see if the shoe has stretched enough for a comfortable fit. According to the website Extraordinary Uses for Rubbing Alcohol, isopropol alcohol can be applied to leather shoes to stretch them out for easier wear.
- Whenever using isopropol alcohol, it is always best to remain in a well-ventilated area. Always consult a health care professional if you are bothered by the fumes from the alcohol or experience nausea, dizziness or headaches. You might be experiencing mild to severe poisoning as a result of the fumes.