Typical dose
As a dietary iodine source, typically not used d...
Oral
Oral safety: low
About this supplement
Molecular iodine (I₂) is the diatomic form of elemental iodine, consisting of two iodine atoms covalently bonded. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and antiseptic. In dietary and therapeutic contexts, it is less common than iodide salts (e.g., potassium iodide) but is used for its rapid antimicrobial action and as a source of iodine. When ingested, molecular iodine is reduced to iodide in the gastrointestinal tract before absorption. It is also used topically as a disinfectant. Unlike iodide, molecular iodine can directly iodinate proteins and lipids, which influences its biological effects.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- As a dietary iodine source, typically not used directly due to irritation potential; iodide salts are preferred. For topical antiseptic use (e.g., tincture of iodine), applied as a 2-7% solution. Oral supplementation as molecular iodine is less common and requires specific formulation.
- Suggested range
- Dietary iodine (as iodide equivalent): Adults: 150-290 mcg daily. Topical: Apply a thin layer of 2-7% solution as needed. Oral molecular iodine in research settings for specific conditions has been studied at doses of 1.5-6 mg/day, but this requires medical supervision.
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Iodine
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Kelp (Seaweed)
Rich natural source of iodine and minerals. Supports thyroid health.
Nascent Iodine
A supplemental form of iodine claimed to be in a highly bioavailable atomic stat...
Potassium Iodide
Essential mineral for thyroid function. Also used for thyroid protection in radi...
Sodium Iodide
Essential mineral for thyroid function and metabolism.
Technical details ▼
Chemical ID (CAS)
7553-56-2
Formula
I₂
Physical properties
Shiny blue-black crystalline solid at room temperature. Sublimes readily to a violet vapor. Slightly soluble in water (0.03 g/100 mL at 20°C), more soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, chloroform, and aqueous solutions of potassium iodide (forming triiodide, I₃⁻). Has a characteristic sharp odor.
How it’s made
Primarily extracted from brine or caliche (nitrate ore) deposits. Iodide from these sources is oxidized to molecular iodine using chlorine or other oxidizing agents. It is then purified via sublimation.