Iodine is part of thyroxin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that controls the body's rate of physical and mental development. A lack of iodine can also cause a goiter, a swelling of the thyroid gland. Iodine is used as a test for starch and turns a deep blue when it comes in contact with it. Care should be taken in handling and using iodine. It can burn the skin and damage the eyes and mucous membranes.
Pure iodine is poisonous if ingested.
This page is maintained by Steve Gagnon .