DEAR DR. GOTT: I have heard that white iodine is good for strengthening nails but have not been able to find out the correct way to use it. Thank you for any help.
DEAR READER: I wrote about white (decolorized) iodine last March but will gladly provide an update for this seemingly remarkable product. We all remember growing up with the familiar red liquid in a small bottle that had a glass applicator in our bathroom medicine cabinets and everyone who looked at us and our skin knew where the cuts and scrapes had been treated. Well, things have come a long way since then.
Decolorized iodine has a number of uses as a first aid product for the prevention of infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Once the wound is cleaned, a small amount can be applied to the affected area up to three times daily. If in a difficult area, the site can be covered with a sterile bandage once the iodine dries.
When it comes to finger nails, apply the product to the affected nails once or twice each day. Improvement typically appears after a week or two.
Toenail fungus can be treated in much the same manner if you prefer iodine to a product such as Miranel which is designed to fight toenail infection. Simply trim the affected nail or nails down and dab the soaked cotton ball under the nail as much as possible and around the borders where it joins the skin. Repeat the soak portion of the remedy two or three times each day.
Another successful use for the product I’ve heard of is hair loss and alopecia areata, a condition associated with hair loss. This certainly appears to be a long shot to me but when rubbed twice daily on the scalp, new hair growth has been reported to occur. It may take six weeks for results to appear. One theory for success is that the scalp may have a fungus and the iodine may simply act as an anti-fungal agent to allow new growth to occur.
I am aware decolorized iodine, known as Iodides Tincture is available through Walmart and independent pharmacies under the Humco label, as well as CVS and Rite Aid under their store brand labels. The cost is minimal and the outcome may be worth a great deal.
Readers who would like related information can order my Health Report “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title when writing or print out an order form from my website www.AskDrGottMD.com.
