Vivian Marlowe
Listerine is a popular brand of mouthwash that contains ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol alcohol. The alcohol content in Listerine ranges from 21.6% to 26.9%, which is higher than most beers, wines, and even some liquors. While the alcohol in Listerine is not meant for consumption, it serves a functional purpose by dissolving active ingredients such as essential oils, which help with plaque and gingivitis. However, the high alcohol content in Listerine has led to its misuse, with some individuals consuming it to get intoxicated, especially those who are underage or struggling with alcohol addiction. As a result, Listerine also offers alcohol-free mouthwash options for those who prefer to avoid alcohol or experience sensitivity to it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) |
| Alcohol Content | 21.6% to 26.9% |
| Alcohol Content Compared to Beverages | Higher alcohol content than most beer, wine, and some liquors |
| Purpose of Alcohol | Disperse essential oils, create a signature sensation |
| Alternative | Alcohol-free Listerine available |
| Side Effects | Burning sensation, not suitable for children, individuals with a history of alcohol addiction |
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What You'll Learn
- Listerine contains 21.6% to 26.9% ethyl alcohol
- This is a higher alcohol content than most beer, wine and liquor
- Ethyl alcohol is denatured to make it undrinkable
- Drinking mouthwash can be dangerous and lead to liver failure
- Alcohol-free mouthwashes are available for those with a history of alcohol abuse
Listerine contains 21.6% to 26.9% ethyl alcohol
Listerine is a brand of mouthwash that contains ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol alcohol or simply ethanol. This is the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and liquor. The percentage of ethanol in Listerine products varies, but it typically falls within the range of 14% to 27% by volume. Specifically, Listerine's Antiseptic Mouthwash Cool Mint mouthwash contains 21.6% alcohol, while some sources state that Listerine contains up to 26.9% alcohol. This variation in alcohol content is due to the different types and formulations of Listerine mouthwash available.
The inclusion of ethyl alcohol in Listerine serves a specific purpose. Firstly, alcohol acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve active ingredients such as essential oils. This ensures that these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mouthwash, enhancing their effectiveness in addressing oral health concerns like plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. Additionally, alcohol contributes to the distinctive, intense sensation often associated with Listerine mouthwash.
However, the presence of ethyl alcohol in Listerine mouthwash has also raised concerns. Mouthwash is designed to be spit out rather than swallowed, as ingesting even small amounts of certain mouthwash ingredients can be dangerous. The alcohol content in Listerine can contribute to a burning sensation in the mouth, making it uncomfortable for some users. Additionally, the alcohol in Listerine can be intoxicating if consumed, particularly by individuals with a history of alcohol abuse or those under the legal drinking age.
To address these concerns, Listerine offers a range of alcohol-free mouthwash products. These alternatives use different methods to disperse essential oils, providing a milder oral care experience while still offering the benefits of Listerine's formulations. Ultimately, the decision to use an alcohol-based or alcohol-free mouthwash depends on individual needs and preferences, and it is always advisable to seek guidance from a dental practitioner for personalized recommendations.
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This is a higher alcohol content than most beer, wine and liquor
Listerine is a brand of mouthwash that contains alcohol. The alcohol content in Listerine varies between different formulations, ranging from 14% to 27% by volume. For example, Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash Cool Mint contains 21.6% alcohol, while the original Listerine formula is 26.9% alcohol (54-proof). This alcohol content is higher than that of most beers and wines, and even some liquors.
The type of alcohol in Listerine is ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, which is the same type of alcohol found in beer, wine, and liquor. However, the alcohol in Listerine is denatured, meaning it has been altered with additional chemicals to make it undrinkable. These added chemicals can include essential oils, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, or methyl salicylate, which can be toxic if ingested. Despite being denatured, some people still consume mouthwash like Listerine to get intoxicated, particularly those struggling with alcohol use disorder or underage drinkers.
The high alcohol content in Listerine contributes to its ability to kill germs, making it effective at reducing bad breath, plaque, and gum disease. However, the alcohol can also cause a burning sensation in the mouth for some individuals. Additionally, due to the high alcohol concentration, ingesting mouthwash can lead to serious health risks, including liver failure, gastrointestinal damage, and even organ failure or death.
While the alcohol in Listerine is the same type found in alcoholic beverages, the additional chemicals and high concentration of fluoride in mouthwash can cause sickness and other health issues if ingested in large quantities. This is why mouthwash is designed to be spit out rather than swallowed. Therefore, while Listerine has a higher alcohol content than most beers and wines, it is not intended for consumption and can be dangerous if used for that purpose.
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Ethyl alcohol is denatured to make it undrinkable
The type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages is called ethyl alcohol or ethanol. It is produced naturally when yeast and other microbes ferment sugars found in plants. Denatured alcohol is ethanol that has been altered with additives to make it unfit for human consumption.
The process of making alcohol unsuitable for human consumption is called (complete or partial) denaturing of the alcohol. Denaturing alcohol involves adding toxic or bad-tasting substances to the alcohol. The most common additive to denatured alcohol is 5 to 10 percent methanol, which is highly toxic when consumed orally. Other additives include benzene, pyridine, castor oil, gasoline, isopropyl alcohol, and acetone.
The use of alcohol-containing mouthwash may increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Additionally, alcohol-based mouthwashes may cause discomfort or a burning sensation in the mouth for some individuals. They are also not recommended for children, individuals with a history of alcohol addiction, or those with certain religious beliefs that restrict alcohol use. As such, alcohol-free mouthwashes provide an important alternative for oral health, relying on a variety of active ingredients to ensure a clean and healthy oral environment.
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Drinking mouthwash can be dangerous and lead to liver failure
Mouthwash is designed to be spit out, not swallowed. Ingesting even a small amount can be seriously dangerous and can lead to liver failure.
Mouthwash typically contains at least 10% alcohol by volume, which is more than enough to get someone drunk. Listerine, for example, contains 26.9% alcohol, which is a higher alcohol content than most beers, wines, and even some liquors. This makes mouthwash particularly appealing to alcoholics and underage drinkers. In fact, an estimated 10 to 15% of people in detox treatment centers for alcoholism have used mouthwash to get drunk, with half of these patients estimated to be regular consumers.
The alcohol in mouthwash is not the only dangerous ingredient. Mouthwash contains a long list of toxic and harmful chemicals, including chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, methyl salicylate, and fluoride. Ingesting these ingredients can cause mouthwash overdose, liver failure, gastrointestinal damage, blindness, organ failure, and even death. Drinking methyl salicylate and hydrogen peroxide may also cause serious stomach and intestine symptoms and can lead to changes in the body's acid-base balance.
Consistent and prolonged consumption of mouthwash to achieve alcohol intoxication can also lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using. Recovery from AUD starts by admitting there's a problem and asking for help. Medical detox can help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms and overcome their physical addiction to alcohol.
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Alcohol-free mouthwashes are available for those with a history of alcohol abuse
The alcohol content in mouthwash typically ranges from 14% to 27% by volume, with some products containing up to 26.9% alcohol. This is a higher alcohol content than found in most beer, wine, and even some liquors. Mouthwash is designed to be spit out rather than swallowed, but the high alcohol content has led to its use as a substitute for alcoholic beverages, especially among alcoholics and underage drinkers. The use of alcohol-containing mouthwash may increase the risk of developing oral cancer in some cases.
To address this issue, alcohol-free mouthwashes are available and provide an important option for maintaining good oral health, particularly for those with a history of alcohol abuse. Alcohol-free mouthwashes rely on a variety of active ingredients to ensure a clean and healthy oral environment, including ingredients with antimicrobial properties that help prevent bad breath. Fluoride is another common component of mouthwash, added to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent decay. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are also recommended for children under 12 and people of certain religious beliefs that restrict the use of alcohol.
Some people may prefer alcohol-based mouthwashes for their classic, robust feel, while others may opt for the gentler touch of alcohol-free varieties. Ultimately, the decision to use alcohol-free mouthwash depends on individual oral care needs and preferences. Alcohol-free mouthwashes may be suitable for individuals with sensitive mouths or those who prefer a milder taste.
Listerine, for example, offers both alcohol-containing and alcohol-free mouthwashes to cater to different preferences and oral health requirements. Their alcohol-containing mouthwashes include antiseptic options that help kill germs, prevent bad breath, and combat plaque and gum disease. On the other hand, their alcohol-free mouthwash, Listerine Total Care, contains fluoride and fresh mint, providing 5x more cleaning power compared to brushing and flossing alone.
Crest also offers an alcohol-free mouthwash called Crest Scope, which provides 24-hour breath protection, killing 99% of bad breath bacteria. This formula proactively shields against plaque, gingivitis, and germs, providing an invigorating experience without the presence of alcohol.
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Frequently asked questions
The alcohol in Listerine is ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol.
The alcohol content in Listerine is approximately 21.6% to 26.9%, which is higher than most beer, wine, and some liquors.
Alcohol in mouthwash, such as Listerine, serves a functional role in dissolving active ingredients like essential oils, which help with plaque and gingivitis.
No, it is not safe to drink Listerine. While the ethanol in Listerine is the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, it also contains other toxic ingredients that can cause serious health issues if ingested.
Yes, Listerine offers alcohol-free mouthwash products that are suitable for individuals with sensitive mouths, a history of alcohol addiction, or certain religious beliefs that restrict alcohol use.
