The wonderful world of herbal properties at a glance

 

What is the Scientific Name of Alcohol

Ethanol – The Primary Type of Alcohol

The most commonly consumed form of alcohol is Ethanol (C₂H₅OH). It’s produced naturally through the fermentation of sugars by yeast. Ethanol is used not only in beverages but also as a disinfectant, fuel, and solvent in pharmaceuticals.

Chemical Structure of Alcohol Explained

All alcohols contain a hydroxyl group (-OH). Ethanol’s structure includes two carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, and one hydroxyl group. This simple structure makes ethanol highly soluble in water, which is useful in medicine and industry.

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Common Types of Alcohol Used in Daily Life

Drinking Alcohol vs Rubbing Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is ethanol, but rubbing alcohol is usually isopropyl alcohol, which is toxic if consumed. It's used for disinfection and cleaning wounds.

Industrial and Medical Alcohol

Industrial alcohol may include methanol or denatured ethanol, used in cleaning and fuels. Medical alcohol is highly purified ethanol, often 70% or 90%, used in clinical settings.

Isopropyl Alcohol – A Common Antiseptic

Isopropyl alcohol (C₃H₈O) is widely used as an antiseptic and cleaning agent. It evaporates quickly, making it ideal for sterilizing surfaces without leaving residue.

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Alcohol in Medicine – Therapeutic Applications

Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizers

During COVID-19, the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers became widespread. These contain 60-95% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, effectively killing harmful viruses and bacteria.

Antiseptic Uses in Surgery and First Aid

Alcohol is used to clean surgical instruments and wounds. It prevents infections by destroying pathogens on the skin and medical tools.

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How Alcohol Affects the Human Body

Short-term Effects of Alcohol

Small amounts of ethanol cause relaxation and drowsiness. However, it can also lead to impaired judgment, dehydration, and dizziness.

Long-term Health Risks

Chronic alcohol use may damage the liver, brain, and heart. It also increases the risk of cancer and mental disorders. According to CDC, excessive drinking causes over 140,000 deaths annually in the U.S.

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Alcohol as a Solvent in Pharmaceuticals

Role in Drug Preparation and Preservation

Ethanol is a universal solvent in the pharmaceutical industry. It helps dissolve active ingredients and preserve liquid medications like cough syrups and tinctures.

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Side Effects of Alcohol Overuse

Physical and Mental Health Damage

Overuse of alcohol can lead to addiction, memory loss, liver failure, and even death. It may also cause anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.

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 Q1: What is the scientific name of alcohol used in drinks?

A1: It's Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol.

Q2: Can alcohol be used to treat infections?
A2: Yes, alcohol is an effective antiseptic for cleaning wounds and surgical areas.

Q3: Is rubbing alcohol safe to drink?
A3: No, rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is toxic if ingested.

Q4: What are alcohol's main uses in medicine?
A4: Disinfection, sterilization, and use as a solvent in drug formulations.

Q5: Does alcohol have healing properties?
A5: While it has disinfecting and preserving properties, alcohol itself does not "heal" but prevents infection.