Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) – Dried Herb, Wildcrafted

Wild Indigo is a member of the pea family and is a small upright and many-branched perennial plant. It grows to be 2 to 3 feet high. Other names for Wild Indigo are False Indigo, Horsefly Weed and Rattle Bush.

The plant is native to mainly Southern Canada and the East Coast of the United States. This plant grows in dry fields, clearings and on the edges of woodlands and open woods.

The genus name Baptisia is from the Greek word bapto, meaning to dye as a colourant can be made from the root. Traditionally Wild Indigo was used by early Native North Americans and early settlers as a dye. The root was also used traditionally as a tea for wound cleansing. Was also used as a poultice for toothaches.

Properties: 

In both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine Wild Indigo has an affinity for the lungs, stomach, liver, heart, blood and bodily fluids. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is known as Da Qing Ye. Traditionally used for clearing heat from the body as well as malaria, laryngitis and fever.

Also used for infections, snake bites, sore throats and as a blood cleanser. Its taste is acrid and bitter.

Properties:

Mainly used in treatment of infection and may be helpful to reduce fever. Traditionally used and may be helpful for enlarged lymph glands.

Combined with Echinacea and Myrrh for treatment of infections and to cleanse the blood.

How to use:

½ to 1 teaspoon per cup of water. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for 20 minutes. May be drunk up to 3 times per day.

Cautions & contraindications:

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your health practitioner if using pharmaceutical drugs.

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