Potassium iodide is typically discussed in relation to treating thyroid issues and the dangers associated with radioactive pollution. However, this widely used chemical is able to perform a wider scope of action. What is important to be aware of about potassium iodide supplements and what are its functions and properties? Here’s a concise outline of the main details.
Kl, Also Known As Potassium Iodide. What Do You Think?
Although potassium iodide was first discovered at the start of the 19th century it attracted a lot of attention and interest following the 1986 catastrophe in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The chemical, abbreviated as Kl or referred to as Kalii Iodidum or Kalium Iodatum was an ingredient in Lugol’s Iodine which is able to block the negative effects of radioactive isotopes of the iodine.
What Is Potassium Iodide?
It’s an inorganic chemical compound, sometimes referred to as potassium salt or Hydriodic acid. It is made in laboratories, mostly for the pharmaceutical industry, as an ingredient in liquids, medicines, ointments, and nutritional supplements.
Potassium Iodide: Physicochemical Properties
Potassium Iodide is an odorless non-flammable, water-soluble substance that has an acidic bitter taste. It’s composed of crystals that are white, and could even be translucent. What else do we need to know about it? What are its characteristics? Here is the most important information:
Characteristics:
- The density of potassium iodide can be found at 3.12 g/cm3,
- Kl’s melting point is 681degC. The boiling temperature is.
- The potassium iodide can also be dissolved in glycerol and ethanol.
Potassium Iodide solution is a substance that is not able to withstand changes in environmental conditions very well. If it is heated too much and exposed to moisture, it causes metals to corrode and also produces dangerous nitrogen oxides and hydrogen.
When it is dissolved in water or evaporates in the air, the Kl solution exhibits corrosive properties that cause irritation to the mucosa of the nose, the skin, and the eyes, and disrupts digestion, leading to various digestive issues.
Potassium Iodide – Application In Medical And Other Fields
Nowadays, potassium iodide can be extensively utilized in various industries. It is mostly used in manufacturing liquids for disinfectants, medicines as well as dietary supplements (Lugol’s Iodine, Iodine). It is a medicinal ingredient. potassium iodide is a potent agent in human bodies:
- It shields the thyroid.
- It has an anti-inflammatory effect,
- it shows an expectorant effect,
- It assists with the management of sporotrichosis which is a fungal infection that can affect the skin (potassium Iodide is a harmful influence on pathogenic fungal spores Sporothrix Schenckii).
In excess, potassium iodide supplements can have an adverse impact on the body of humans. It can trigger nausea, swelling, and allergic reactions. It can also cause depression problems! It is therefore mandatory to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to starting the treatment with potassium iodide.
Other Possible Uses Of Potassium Iodide
This inorganic compound can be used in addition to other uses too:
- Table salt iodination,
- Water treatment
- qualitative analytical chemical analysis (known by the term titration),
- Physical analysis (spectroscopy),
- Qualitative analyses of food items (potassium Iodide solution aids in the identification of starch content),
- Production of a light-sensitive photographic emulsion.
Lugol’s Iodine – And Iodide Solution Of Potassium
The year was 1829. Jean Lugol, a French physician, and researcher developed a recipe for a water-based solution of potassium Iodide ( Solutio Iodi aquosa) which operates today under the brand Lugol’s Iodine.
Jean Lugol discovered that the mixture of distilled water, iodine, and Iodide can have a positive effect on patients suffering from hypothyroidism and enhances the function of the thyroid. Regular use of this liquid is intended to protect the sensitive organ from radiation from cancerous sources.
Today, Lugol’s Iodine is produced on an industrial scale to be used as a medicine and is also an antibacterial and disinfectant. But the therapeutic effect of the liquid is only able to be obtained with the proper dose – the appropriate daily dose should be determined by a physician.
