Evidence supporting the use of: Iodine
For the health condition: Burns and Scalds

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Iodine, particularly in the form of povidone-iodine (betadine), is scientifically validated as a topical antiseptic for the treatment and management of burns and scalds. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective against a wide array of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which helps prevent infections—a major complication in burn wounds. Numerous clinical studies and medical guidelines support the use of iodine-based solutions in burn care. Povidone-iodine is preferred over earlier tinctures of iodine due to its reduced cytotoxicity and irritation, making it safer for application to damaged skin.

Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have demonstrated that povidone-iodine reduces wound infection rates and promotes healing in partial-thickness burns. The World Health Organization and other health authorities recognize iodine preparations as standard wound care agents, especially in settings where advanced burn care is not available. However, some caution is advised: excessive or prolonged use can delay healing due to possible cytotoxic effects on keratinocytes and fibroblasts, and absorption of iodine can affect thyroid function, especially in children or those with extensive burns.

Overall, the scientific evidence for iodine’s efficacy in preventing infection and supporting wound healing in burns and scalds is strong, and its use is widely accepted in both clinical and emergency settings. Nonetheless, care must be taken to balance its antimicrobial benefits with its potential side effects.

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aloe vera
amino acids
green chiretta
annatto
bamboo
basil
beeswax
myrobalan
beta caryophyllene
betel
bisabolol
black cumin
black walnut
blackberry
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bromelain
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carrot
chamomile
clove
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coconut milk
cucumber
turmeric
curcumin
echinacea purpurea
garlic bulb
glycerin
gooseberry
gotu kola
onion
hemp oil
hyaluronic acid
Indian gum arabic tree
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iodine
honeysuckle
Japanese sophora
jujube
l-glutamine
marshmallow
moringa
mustard seed
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
papain
parsley
phenolic acids
plantain
protease
purified silver
quail egg
rhizome
rosemary
sage
schizonepeta
scrophularia root
selenium
silicon
slippery elm bark
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
vitamin A
vitamin C
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parthenium
chickweed
typhonium
papaya
shen-chu
mugwort
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alpinia galangal
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commiphora
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