Potassium iodide is a salt of stable iodine. Solutions of iodide salts are converted into iodine, which is transported and concentrated in the thyroid gland.
Iodine is an essential constituent of thyroid hormones and its deficiency causes different disorders that include goiter, hypothyroidism, reduced fertility and alteration in growth, physical and neurological development.
Unstable iodine is radioactive and can damage the thyroid if it is ingested in high enough quantities. Potassium iodide blocks radioactive iodine from entering the thyroid.
Potassium iodide acts as an expectorant by increasing secretion of respiratory fluids, which decreases the viscosity of mucus.
Technical insights:
- Country of origin: USA
- Starting material: Potassium iodide: 76% iodine, 23% potassium
- Solvent for extraction: None used
- Stored form: Colorless to white powder