What is Iodized Radish Good for? Benefits, Uses and Contraindications

The iodinated radish, also known as radish syrup, a dietary supplement, is highly praised for its medicinal properties. In most cases, this product is usually marketed as an energizer or a stimulant of the lymphatic system. Still, it has been observed that iodized radish may have other health benefits.

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What is iodized radish used for? What are its properties due to?

The power of this supplement lies in its high concentration of certain essential vitamins, compounds, and minerals. As its name suggests, one of the base ingredients is radish extract ( extract of horseradish seeds ), but the preparation is always enriched with other components.

It may interest you: Horseradish – Properties, Benefits, and Contraindications.

For example, one of the key ingredients is iodine, usually added as potassium iodide. It is a saline compound that prevents radioactive iodine from entering the thyroid gland in an emergency situation¹ . It is often used in combination with medications called anti-thyroid drugs to regulate the production and secretion of thyroid hormones in some people, especially in an overactive thyroid. It has also been observed to have an expectorant action. Hence it helps loosen phlegm trapped in the airways.².

In an emergency situation due to radioactive exposure, potassium iodide is able to selectively block the absorption of radioactive iodide by the thyroid gland, protecting it from possible damage and reducing the risk of developing thyroid cancer in the long term ³.

Another fact to consider is that iodized radish is usually very rich in calcium, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamins of group B ( B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12 ). This further increases the health benefits of syrup.

Depending on the product and the specific ingredients of each manufacturer, iodized radish can be indicated for different conditions; however, these are its 11 most general uses⁴ ⁵:

Raise energy levels and whet your appetite.
Strengthen the immune system.
Stimulate the functioning of the lymphatic system to clean the blood better and detoxify the body.
Relieve cold and flu symptoms. It is an anticatarrhal remedy with expectorant action, highly recommended to treat coughs, congestion, and sinusitis.
Facilitate breathing in cases of chronic lung problems, for example, bronchial conditions, asthma, and emphysema.
Prevent and combat calcium deficiency.
Prevent common infections thanks to its antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Help regulate the endocrine system, thyroid gland function, and metabolism.
Improve the health and appearance of the skin. Many recommend the consumption or direct application of iodized radish, as it appears to help fade blemishes and scars, eliminate toxins, fight acne, and relieve eczema.
Promote the absorption of iron to prevent anemia.
Promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the intestine.

How do you use iodized radish syrup?

This vitamin complex is taken orally, always following the manufacturer’s instructions or your doctor’s recommendations. The recommended daily dose may vary slightly according to each product, but below, we show you what is considered a standard dose:

Adults . 1 tablespoon (15ml), 2 times a day.
Children from 4 years and adolescents. 1½ teaspoon (7.5ml), 2 times a day.
Babies and children under 4 years old. Consult your doctor or pediatrician first before administering any supplement.
Pregnant women. The use of supplements in pregnancy or lactation is not recommended without the corresponding medical authorization.

It is important to pay attention to the possible specifications for use that normally appear on the packaging. For example, if it is necessary to shake it before use, take it on an empty stomach, in the company of food or with water, etc.

If you forget a dose of iodized radish, it is advisable to take it as soon as you remember it. If it is nearing your next dose, skip the missed dose, wait, and go on your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses of this syrup at the same time, or add additional doses.

Where do you get iodized radish? Can I do it at home?

It is usually available in pharmacies, supermarkets, vitamin/supplement stores, and online sites. It is usually an affordable product, with prices that range within an economical range.

Many wonder if it is possible to make their own homemade iodized radish. Although there are some recipe suggestions available, it should be noted that this vitamin complex owes its medicinal benefits to the concentration of certain compounds that have been duly added and that go beyond radish and its natural properties.

See later:

That said, here is a recipe to make radish syrup in a few steps.

Wash 4-5 radishes with plenty of water, dry them and cut them into skinny slices.
Take them to a glass container, clean them, and totally dry them.
Cover the radish slices with 15 tablespoons of pure honey (preferably organic).
Add the juice of 1 lemon and 5 drops of liquid potassium iodide (for oral consumption) or, failing that, 2 finely cut garlic cloves. Did you know that garlic is one of the foods with the highest content of natural iodine?⁶
Stir, cover tightly and marinate in a dark, dry place for at least 24 hours before first use. Since it is not recommended to refrigerate this syrup, it is preferable to remove the radish slices after 2-3 days. This will keep it in good condition for longer.

Note: Even in small doses, avoid taking oral potassium iodide without first consulting your doctor.

Does iodized radish syrup have contraindications?

Like any other supplement, iodized radish can cause side effects and be contraindicated in some cases. Among the main adverse symptoms that a person could present are⁷:

Allergic reaction (skin rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling, etc.)
Diarrhea, vomiting
Excess gas
Stomachache
Unusual taste in the mouth

In general, the use of iodized radish is not recommended in people who⁸:

Have a history of hypersensitivity to iodine or potassium iodide
Are allergic to radish
Have a chronic health condition (kidney/liver failure)
They are under 3 years old.

Likewise, it is important to proceed with caution in case of :

Having thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter). Personalized medical advice is needed.
Being pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety of iodized radish in both stages is not well established.
Being under medical treatment. It is necessary to consult the doctor about possible interactions with other medications and supplements.
Have a chronic skin condition.

Additional warnings:

Some people are sensitive or allergic to tartrazine, a food coloring commonly used in cough syrups ⁹ ¹⁰.
Not all products marketed as Iodinated Radish are designed for use by children. If you buy it for your child, make sure the syrup is suitable for children.

Learn more about radish and other root vegetables!

References:

Louise Hammond

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My name is Louise Hammond, and I am the creator of this website, a place to find information about tubers, bulbs and medicinal roots. In Dreamsship.com I show the properties, benefits, characteristics, photos and images, ways of growing and how to make delicious meals from starchy vegetables.