Listerine has a long and rather complicated history. Created in 1879 by Dr. Joseph Lawrence and Jordan Wheat Lambert originally as a surgical antiseptic. No one imagined its amazing future back then. In 1895 it was given to dentists as a mouthwash. In 1914 it became the first mouthwash available over the counter. It would be the reason mouthwash would become a popular oral hygiene product. It's adds worked hard to convince the population that they needed to do something about their bad breath and it worked wonders!

From 1921-1970 Listerine was also marketed as a product that could help prevent colds and sore throats. In te 1930's there were even a few ads suggesting it was the perfect way to get rid of dandruff. Over the years it has had a few purposes and several claims of it being a wonder product that can do a lot of good for a lot of things. While many of these claims aren't backed up with scientific evidence or research, it seems that it certainly is worth trying and won't hurt to see if it works for you!

Listerine has cured many fungal infections, according to many. It can be used for nail and toe nail fungus, jock itch, athletes foot, and even trucker's bottom. To apply it you can use a new spray bottle, apply a little to a cotton ball or cotton square and then rub the area, or you can soak it. Soaking it is recommended for nail fungus which is harder to get at. Soak for 20 minutes. The best kind to use is the original amber colored Listerine, but any flavor is supposed to work.

It was once advertised as a dandruff cure. Whether or not that is backed up by any science, I certainly don't know. However, there are lots of people who claim it works wonders. Simply massage it into the scalp before you get into the shower and then shampoo as normal. Cradle cap, which is a sever case of dandruff usually found on a baby's scalp, can also be cured with Listerine. Gently pour over the scalp and make sure to avoid getting it on the face. Wash your baby as normal.

After Shave- Many people say that Listerine is the perfect aftershave. Not only can you pick one you like the smell of and feel fresh, it sooths irritated skin, and leaves you feeling soft and smooth.

Body Deodorant- This germ fighting mouthwash can also fight germs in other places and through that process leave you feeling fresh and odor free. Use a spray bottle or cotton ball to apply to the underarms or other smelly areas.

Wounds- Because Listerine is an antiseptic it is good for wounds and can be used like many other wound care options.

Lice- While this one is the scariest, many people claim that Listerine is a good way to kill lice. Whether or not it works, I can't say though it might be worth a try because it is less expensive and safer then many lice treatments. It is also claimed that it is a good way to prevent the spread of lice by treating the scalps of those without.

Many different people have claimed to have success with Listerine in treating a wide range of skin issues. For applying you can use a cotton ball or square, a squirt bottle, slosh it on the area, or even add it to the bath.

Psoriasis- While it is unsure why Listerine would work in helping psoriasis or many of the other skin conditions it is said to help many people claim that it makes a huge difference.

Allergic reactions- Many also claim that it works well on allergic reactions including those to poison oak, ivy, and sumac. Some who have frequent problems use it regularly throughout the summer to avoid breaking out.

Shingles- Much like with other skin conditions many people say that it relieves the symptoms of shingles and stops the itching.

Rashes- A wide range of rashes are said to be healed by it, both those listed above and mysterious ones as well.

Acne- Many people claim that if you dab Listerine on blemishes they will clear up leaving your skin soft, healthy, and acne free.

Bug bites- Because it is known to stop itching of all sorts, many people claim it is also wonderful at bug bites. Just dab it on the bite and enjoy the fact that the itching stops.

There are many claims that Listerine was marketed in the past as a floor cleaner and a toilet cleaner. This isn't true, but that doesn't mean that the product can't make a good cleaner. It kills odors and disinfects. Because of this it works well cleaning toilets, as a floor cleaner, and even an all purpose cleaner. You can put it in a spray bottle and water it down (half and half is a good mixture) and use it all over the house. It is also supposed to kill mold and mildew.

Another thing that it can do well is to disinfect a washing machine. Add a cup of it to the washing machine for cleaner, germ free clothing. This can be especially handy at a laundry mat. You can also use a cup of Listerine in an empty load just to clean your washing machine at home.

While Listerine isn't going to replace a million and one items in your life, it can be used for a surprising number of things. Plus if it works for you...it could become a life saver. Many people who claim it works for their various skin conditions have said that it helps heal them faster, easier, and less expensively then if they had to go to the doctor. Plus it isn't expensive to try, is safe, and if it doesn't work...well, what have you lost?