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.