What is “Lugol’s Iodine” and Why is Lugal’s So Good for You?
Iodine, an essential element for the human body, plays a pivotal role in various bodily functions. Unlike some nutrients, the human body cannot produce iodine on its own, making dietary intake crucial. Unfortunately, iodine deficiency is a prevalent issue worldwide. Let’s take a look at the significance of Lugol’s Iodine, a potent iodine supplement, and its numerous health benefits.
What is Lugol’s Iodine?
Lugol’s Iodine, named after French scientist Jean Lugol, who formulated it in 1829, is not a brand but a specific iodine formulation. It consists of an aqueous solution of potassium iodide and elemental iodine, with water serving as the medium. Here are some of the health benefits associated with Lugol’s Iodine:
Why is Lugal’s Iodine So Good for You?
Lugol’s Iodine boasts a wide array of health benefits, including:
- Natural antihistamine properties.
- Antioxidant capabilities.
- Displacement of harmful substances like fluoride, bromide, and chlorine from the body.
- Mercury detoxification.
- Promotion of proper hormone balance.
- Strengthening of the immune system.
- Reduction of cholesterol levels.
- Increased metabolism.
- Support for hair, skin, and nail growth.
- Essential for bone health.
- Protection against radiation.
- Crucial for proper brain development.
- Management of thyroid disorders (both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism).
- Potential role in cancer prevention.
- Aiding the functioning of the thyroid gland.
- Antimicrobial properties against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
What Sets Lugol’s Iodine Apart?
Lugol’s Iodine stands out from other iodine supplements due to its unique composition. It contains three distinct forms of iodine – molecular iodine, iodide, and tri-iodide, each serving specific purposes in the body:
- Iodide assists in removing heavy metals such as mercury, lead, aluminum, and arsenic.
- Iodide is utilized by the thyroid, salivary glands, and skin.
- Elemental iodine is employed by the breasts, prostate, digestive system, and brain.
Dosage and Considerations
Determining the right dosage of Lugol’s Iodine can vary from person to person, as individual iodine needs differ. A recommended starting point is the tonic recommended by Dr. D. C. Jarvis:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water with 1 drop of Lugol’s (5%) Iodine, taken twice a week.
For more serious health issues, some natural alternative specialists recommend higher doses, such as 12.5-50 mg of Lugol’s Iodine daily. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional when considering larger amounts, as sudden intake can lead to side effects due to the removal of toxins from the body. Additionally, when taking Lugol’s solution, it’s crucial to ensure the availability of “companion nutrients” that work synergistically with iodine:
Companion Nutrients for Lugol’s Iodine
- Selenium.
- Zinc.
- Vitamin C.
- B Vitamins.
- Magnesium.
Lugol’s Iodine Strength and Timing
Lugol’s Iodine typically comes in two strengths: Lugol’s Iodine 2% and Lugol’s Iodine 5%. Understanding the iodine content in drops can help with dosage:
2% Lugol’s Solution:
-
- 1 drop contains 2.5 mg of iodine.
- 5 drops contain 12.5 mg of iodine.
- 20 drops contain 50 mg of iodine.
5% Lugol’s Solution:
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- 1 drop contains 6.25 mg of iodine.
- 2 drops contain 12.5 mg of iodine.
- 8 drops contain 50 mg of iodine.
Ideally, take Lugol’s Iodine in the morning or afternoon, as consumption in the late afternoon or evening may lead to insomnia due to its energy-boosting properties. Taking it with food aids in iodine absorption, and companion nutrients can be ingested concurrently.
Topical and Oral Use
Apart from oral consumption, Lugol’s iodine solution has topical applications. However, it’s essential to note that it can temporarily stain the skin. For individuals who prefer this method, it’s essential to monitor iodine intake accurately. Topical Lugol’s Iodine can be useful for various skin issues, including:
- Warts.
- Skin tags.
- Moles.
- Dermatitis.
- Fungal infections.
- Ringworm.
- Tinea versicolor.
- Boils.
- Scars.
- Acne.
- Nasal polyps.
- Ganglion cysts.
For topical use, apply 5% Lugol’s iodine to the affected area once or twice daily. If the skin is sensitive or broken, consider using 2% solution. After applying iodine, you can also massage castor oil or coconut oil onto the treated area to alleviate any discomfort.
The Importance of Iodine in Health
Iodine holds a crucial place in healthcare, being listed as an essential medicine by the World Health Organization, primarily for its role in supporting the thyroid gland. In the past, doctors commonly prescribed iodine for various health concerns, but with the advent of pharmaceutical medications, its use is being avoided. However, natural alternative specialists have reintroduced iodine supplementation as a means to correct iodine deficiency and address related health issues.
Dietary Sources of Iodine
While it’s ideal to obtain iodine through dietary sources, the availability of iodine-rich foods can be limited. Some natural food sources of iodine include:
- Milk.
- Yogurt.
- Cheese.
- Codfish.
- Tuna.
- Seaweed.
- Iodized salt.
- Cranberries.
- Strawberries.
- Potatoes.
- Eggs.
However, due to depleted iodine levels in soils, many of these foods may not provide sufficient iodine. Fish and sea vegetables are good sources but may not be readily accessible. Additionally, additives in food and water, such as bromide, chlorine, and fluoride, can hinder iodine absorption.
Supplementation with Lugol’s Iodine
Lugol’s Iodine serves as an effective solution for addressing iodine insufficiency as well as related health conditions.
If you have experience with Lugol’s Iodine, please share your insights and experiences, contributing to the collective understanding of this valuable supplement.