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It’s old-fashioned compared to some more modern antiseptic products, but iodine is a proven killer of bacteria, molds, viruses, and fungi. It stores well, is inexpensive, and has the added advantage of producing an orange stain so you can see where it’s been applied. Iodine solutions can be used on cuts and scrapes that equines and humans may acquire around the barn or in the pasture.

Tincture of iodine is an alcohol-based antiseptic. It stings when applied, so horse owners might want to dilute it a bit and be ready for a reaction if it’s used on small open wounds. It’s effective against various types of skin infections, but should not be covered with a bandage. Because of its alcohol content, tincture of iodine is flammable.

Povidone iodine, sometimes labeled as Betadine solution, is water-based and has the same disinfectant properties, but won’t sting when applied. It’s non-irritating, doesn’t need to be rinsed off the skin, and can be used under a bandage. Iodine wound preparations are available in both liquid and paste forms.

Betadine surgical scrub contains soap in addition to iodine. Though it should not be applied to broken skin, it works well as a disinfectant for surgical sites and to clean the surgeon’s hands. This iodine product needs to be rinsed off the skin with clean water after it has been used.

A small amount of dietary iodine is necessary for proper thyroid function and other body processes. This is provided as part of a normal diet. Wash your hands after handling products containing iodine, and don’t drink it in any form; iodine solutions are poisonous if taken internally, and only a few grams are necessary to cause a severe toxic reaction.

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