Starch identification with Lugol's method is carried out by means of a process used by biology and chemistry. The objective of this process is to determine whether a sample or substance contains starch in its structure.
When Lugol's solution and starch are combined, the reaction is immediate, altering the color of the sample and allowing the identification of the starch. However, to determine how Lugol's solution reacts with starch, it is necessary to know the properties of both compounds, which we will see below.
First of all, iodine is an element that is insoluble in water. Therefore, to modify this characteristic, potassium iodide and double-distilled water are added to obtain Lugol's solution. On the other hand, starch is a complex carbohydrate with the same characteristic as elemental iodine.
Now, the determination of starch with Lugol is obtained by means of a test to measure the level or degree of hydrolysis of the carbohydrate. The reaction of Lugol and starch is made evident by the change in color.
Depending on the concentration level, the reaction will cause the solution to turn dark blue, purple or black. This effect can be altered if the compound is subjected to temperature changes.
Importance of the Lugol-Starch Reaction
The Lugol-Starch reaction using the iodine test is used for various purposes and hence its importance in biological and chemical studies. Let's see!
1. Starch identification with Lugol
When Lugol is added to a sample, it enters the empty spaces of a starch molecule, causing the color to change. This test is applied in any type of industry to ensure the quality of the products available on the market.
For example, the pharmaceutical industry uses the test in the manufacture of medicines. And it is also used in foods to determine the level of carbohydrate concentration and the percentage of iodine that they should have for consumption.
Its use is also essential in the manufacture of dyes, beauty products, textiles, paper and more.
2. Diagnose different types of diseases
Starch in some of its forms can cause the appearance of degenerative or thyroid diseases. Such is the case of amyloidosis caused by the accumulation of amyloid protein in any organ of the body.
This disease can be detected by applying the iodine test on biological samples obtained from patients. Subsequently, treatment can be applied according to the level of progression of the disease and the affected organ.
In the case of the thyroid, excess starch in the body can cause thyroid cancer, hyperthyroidism, among others. These pathologies are usually treated with Lugol in optimal doses to slow the progression of the disease.
In fact, in view of the results obtained in tests on Lugol and starch , the use of Lugol has increased as a solution not only to treat diseases but also to prevent them.
Finally, you can get the original formula of Dr. Jean Lugol and buy Lugol here from any country in the world. A product of high purity and certified quality.
