Wild Indigo Herbal Remedies

Wild indigo is a heat-clearing, anti-viral herb that is used to remove heat and toxins in such conditions as boils, abscesses, and septicemia. Wild indigo is also indicated for laryngitis and tonsillitis. Externally, it is applied as a poultice to sore or cracked nipples. It is widely used in Europe and the U.S. in combination with echinacea and thuja in immune stimulant preparations to treat colds and flu, especially when accompanied by a fever. Caution: This herb is slightly toxic in large doses and can cause nausea and vomiting; not for use during pregnancy. Wild Indigo has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COLD.

Wild Indigo Proper Dose

TypeDossage
Wild Indigo Infusion1 cup 2-3 x daily
Wild Indigo Tincture1-2 droppersful tincture 2-3 x daily

Wild Indigo Reference Information

Latin NameBaptisia tinctoria
Other NamesFalse Indigo
Part UsedRoot
Herb FormsTincture, bulk herb.
AffectsImmune system
CautionsContraindicated during pregnancy. Not for long-term use.
Botanical InfoA perennial herb native to the eastern U.S. with bright yellow flowers in the pea family.

Supporting Research

McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.

Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.

Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.

Madaus, G. 1976. Lehrbuch der Biologischen Heilmittel. Hildesheim: Georg Olms Verlag.

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