the invention concerns the discovery of the surprising and unexpected therapeutic effects of hydroxyl ions . the observed medicinal properties of these ions are both novel and broad in scope . the acute corrosive effects and toxicity of hydroxyl ions on living tissue has previously overwhelmed their therapeutic attributes . unique hydroxyl ion modulating compounds have been discovered and are within the scope of the invention . when used appropriately as companions with hydroxyl ions , these modulating compounds obviate and attenuate the harmful effects of hydroxyl ions , unmasking and revealing their previously unknown and undemonstratable therapeutic properties . these hydroxyl ion modulating compounds do not significantly interfere with the surprising and unexpected therapeutic benefits of the hydroxyl ions . the novel hydroxyl ion modulating compounds are generally characterized as n , n - disubstituted - aminoacetate salts and substituted n , n - substituted - aminoacetate salts .