If you're dealing with a sore throat and searching for a natural remedy, consider trying iodine painting. While iodine is widely used to treat different health issues, it's not as commonly known for its potential as a sore throat remedy.
In this article, we'll delve into the science behind how iodine can effectively treat sore throats and provide safe usage instructions.
How Does Iodine Work to Treat A Sore Throat?
Iodine is a naturally occurring mineral essential for the body to produce hormones and regulate metabolism. When used in liquid form, it also acts as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. Applying iodine to an inflamed throat can help eliminate infection, kill fungus and bacteria, and address the underlying cause of a sore throat.
Additionally, iodine can provide immediate relief by reducing inflammation on contact. Many people are iodine deficient, so supplementing iodine can also support immune function and promote healing.
Iodine Painting: How to Use It for Sore Throats
Application
To use iodine for a sore throat, apply it externally to the neck around the areas where your throat hurts. You can also apply iodine to the veins of your wrists, as these veins are close to the skin's surface. Apply the iodine daily until the soreness subsides.
Iodine Types
Regular iodine will stain anything it comes into contact with, so consider using colorless iodine, available online or at many pharmacies.
Real-Life Experiences with Iodine for Sore Throats
Many Earth Clinic readers have shared their success stories with iodine painting for sore throats. Renee recounted how iodine painting on her wrists and throat areas significantly relieved her swollen glands and sore throat within hours.
"Iodine cured my swollen saliva/throat glands after 2 horrible nights of restless sleep. I found this website in searching for a cure (non-prescription) Iodine was suggested. So about noon today, painted the wrists and throat areas. I found Iodine at a local drug store. It was under $2. I took a one hour nap and already felt better. The prior two days, it hurt to swallow, it was horrible to eat or drink, burning sensation during both. I ate watermelon and when I would drink, I would drink as fast as possible. By 2 pm, I was at a soup and salads (buffet restaurant) enjoying soup, more fruit, drinking. It pretty much took care of my sore throat and swollen glands. I read here that it takes care of skin tags. I placed iodine on the 3 I have and hopefully they will be gone. I will report back as to whether or not it works, but as far as the initial success and how great I feel, I have a positive outlook."
Similarly, Quita shared her skepticism about iodine painting for a sore throat but was amazed at the pain relief she experienced the next morning.
"I had a severe sore throat recently (I could not even swallow) and my good friend suggested painting the inside of my wrist with iodine. I thought she was crazy. But it worked! The pain was completely gone the next morning. Shortly thereafter my son became sick with a bad cold. Although she recommended the iodine for a sore throat, I used it on my 3-year old and the next day he was 100% better. I googled iodine cures and discovered this site. I am convinced!:
The Importance of Iodine in Our Diets
Iodized Salt
In the 1920s, the US government requested that Morton's add a small amount of iodine to their table salt to combat the prevalence of goiters (enlarged thyroids) caused by iodine deficiency. Today, goiters are relatively rare in the US, thanks to the widespread use of iodized table salt and iodized sea salt.
Precautions and Contraindications
Iodine Sensitivity
Iodine is safe for most people, but some individuals should avoid it, and it should not be taken with certain medications. Those with Hashimoto's Autoimmune Thyroid Disease or overactive thyroid should not take iodine. Consult WebMD or your healthcare provider for a list of medications that are incompatible with iodine.
Conclusion
While iodine is commonly used to treat cuts and scrapes, its potential as a remedy for sore throats is lesser-known but equally effective. If you are dealing with a painful sore throat, consider giving iodine painting a try. As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medications.
You have probably used iodine to treat cuts or scrapes before, but now you can try it as a remedy for a sore throat!
Scroll down the page to read more about how others have used iodine for their sore throats. Try it and let us know if it worked for you!
Related Links:
10 Best Natural Remedies for Soothing a Sore Throat
10 Cold and Flu Home Remedies
Benefits of Iodine for Health
Best Natural Remedies for Laryngitis: Soothe & Restore Your Voice
Lugol's Iodine: Treatment and Side Effects
Lugol’s Iodine: Health Benefits, Uses, and Dosage
Natural Remedies for Flu: Fast Symptom Relief & Recover
Supplementing with Iodine Recommended for Pregnant Women
