Baptisia tinctoria

Baptisia tinctoria                                    Common name: Wild Indigo

Family: Fabaceae

Part used: Root

Constituents: Alkaloids, glycoprotein, oleo-resin, Isoflavones (genistein), flavonoids, coumarins, polysaccharides, bitter principle (baptisin)

Actions: Anti-microbial, antiseptic, anti-catarrhal, astringent, immuno-modulating, immuno-stimulant, febrifuge, anti-pyretic, alterative, mild cardiac agent, emetic &purgative (high dose), laxative, emmenagogue

Medical uses: Wild indigo is a herb to be considered wherever there is a focus of infection. This remedy supports and stimulates the body’s own immune response to infection. It is especially useful in the treatment of infections and catarrh in the ear, nose and throat. It may be used for laryngitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and catarrhal infections of the nose and sinus.  Used internally it may be helpful in the treatment of enlarged and inflamed lymph glands and also to reduce fevers. Externally an ointment will help infected ulcers.

Pharmacology:

• Isoflavones (genistein) are estrogenic
• Glycoprotein is immunomodulating

Pharmacy:  Tincture: (1:5, 60%), 1-3 ml TID. Decoction: 1 tbsp/cup water, simmer 15 min, TID. Dried herb: 1g, TID. Mouthwash, gargle, douche

Contraindications: Long term use, high doses, pregnancy & lactation.

Toxicity:  Adverse effects could be nausea, anorexia, hypersalivation, tachypnea, tachycardia, respiratory paralysis.

Interactions: None known.