Blue Flag Root (Iris versicolour) – Dried Herb, Organic

Blue Flag is a perennial herb native to North America and cultivated elsewhere in the world. It grows in shallow water, at the edge of ponds, marshes and swamps; and is similar in appearance to other Wild Iris, sometimes mistaken for it.

Historically, Blue Flag was an important herb to many Indigenous tribes, including the Mohawk, Seneca, Ojibwe, Potawatami, Chippewa and Cree. While the leaves of the plant were used for basket weaving and the flowers to produce a light dye, the roots were dried and decocted to produce poultices to ease pain and inflammation associated with arthritis as well as bruises, psoriasis and other skin conditions. The effects may have been due to the astringency of tannins and the presence of salicylic acid, which is a chemical precursor to aspirin.

Also known as Blue Iris, there is little to no modern research on Blue Flag for thyroid function, the bulbs were used and written about extensively by the early American “eclectic” physicians, a group of medical doctors practicing in the late 1800s and early 1990s, who recommended the plant for goitre and to decongest and detoxify atonic tissues.

Properties:

The energetic and flavour of Blue Flag Root are acrid, cooling and drying. Blue Flag has an affinity towards the kidneys, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, lymphatic system and colon.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Blue Flag Root to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Cautions & contraindications:

Pregnant and nursing women should not use Blue Flag, nor should those who suffer from hyperthyroid conditions. Overuse may cause nausea, upset stomach and vomiting. All parts of the fresh plant are harmful if eaten.

Ask for assistance from a practitioner when combining Blue Flag Root in any formula.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your health care provider before the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.