People’s Pharmacy: Iodine and fungus

For more than 20 years, I was plagued with dry, flaky skin on the side of my nose and behind my earlobes. I went to several doctors, including dermatologists. We tried various salves, to no avail.

I wondered if this ailment was caused by a fungus. As a chemist, I know that iodine is very effective on fungus. I applied tincture of iodine with my fingers (every two days for a week) and got cured within a week. It’s been two months, and the spots have not returned. I previously had success treating toenail fungus with iodine.

Iodine was discovered about 200 years ago. As a tincture, it has broad antiseptic activity. You are correct that it kills fungus. Tincture of iodine is dark brown, and it can stain, so not everyone will want to use it on the face. Other readers have reported success applying tincture of iodine to fungus-infected nails.

My internist says I need extra vitamin D and suggested I spend more time in the sun. My dermatologist insists that I need to use a high-SPF sunscreen every day and stay out of the sun. I am feeling extremely confused.

Dermatologists see a lot of skin damage and cancer caused by excess sun exposure, so it’s no wonder they want to protect patients. They recommend vitamin D supplements instead of sunshine. Some experts think that getting vitamin D from controlled sun exposure is preferable. There is no risk of vitamin D toxicity this way, but it is essential to limit time in the sun. Sunscreen prevents vitamin D formation.

Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. https://www.peoplespharmacy.com.