Lugols iodine is a brown transparent bacteriostatic fungicidal liquid. It contains 10 parts of potassium iodide to five parts iodine to 85 parts of distilled water. Lugols iodine in the pure potassium iodide form was used as a treatment for iodine deficiency of the thyroid. With the addition of iodine-to-salt content, iodine deficiency is less common.
History
Lugols iodine, also called Lugols solution, was named after its developer, Jean Lugol, a French physician who produced it in 1829. It was used as an antiseptic for over a century. In 1986, after the Chernobyl disaster, the Polish government used Lugols iodine to replace and block any intake of radioactive iodine. In August 2007, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) regulated Lugols iodine. One fluid ounce (30 milliliters) of Lugols solution is exempt.
Medical Uses
During a coloposcopy, a test done to prevent cervical cancer by determining the absence or presence of pre-malignant or malignant tissue, Lugols iodine is used to swab the tissues of the cervix, vulva and vagina. The Lugols iodine improves the visualization of any abnormal tissues. Lugols iodine is also a popular alternative medicine component.
Other Uses
Loguls iodine may be used to disinfect drinking water in an emergency situation. In the marine aquarium industry, Lugols iodine is used as a dip for stony, soft or leathered corals. This treatment brightens their colors and promotes coral polyp expansion. Lugol iodine supplements for aquarium use are also available for purchase.
Benefits
Lugols iodine is an important ingredient in the body for the proper function of the thyroid gland and for the regulation of the body's energy output. Lugols iodine is also reported as having a calming effect on the nervous system, improving brain function and reducing weight by burning unwanted fat.
Foods Rich in Iodine
To maintain an adequate amount of iodine in your body, eat foods that are rich in iodine. These foods include cod liver oil, eggs, seaweed, sea salt, iodized salt, sea foods, haddock and most fresh fish. Dark-green vegetables like spinach, broccoli and romaine lettuce are rich in iodine, as well as seeds and nuts.
Warning
Do not take Lugols iodine without your doctors advice. Some people do suffer the side effects of Lugols iodine, which include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a metallic taste in the mouth. Seek immediate medical attention for any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing.
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