New to Iodine

Hi,

I'm new to this forum. Trapper and Neomi both recommended that I start using Lugol's Iodine to treat my unbearable eczema and to rebalance my hormones.

My question is how do I use it? I know I can mix it with some oil and apply it topically but am I supposed to take it orally too? If so, how much? Should I expect any side effects?

At the moment, I can only find the 1/2 strength that's being sold in Australia. I can either purchase that first and buy the 5% later or wait until I can get a hold of the full strength. Is the 1/2 strength as effective??

Thanks for reading :)