- Region
- North America
- Origin
- North America
North America · Herb · № 332
Baptisia tinctoria
Herb · North America
Wild indigo
Baptisia tinctoria
Traditionally attributed effects: antiseptic, antibacterial, fever-reducing, laxative.
Safety notes
Do not exceed the dose, too much can cause vomiting. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (2)
- Herbal medicine worldwide: Do not exceed the dose, too much can cause vomiting.
- Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine: Poisonous in larger amounts: not internally without an expert.
Preparation
Root, leaves.
Use in traditions
Indigenous peoples used the root as a wash for wounds and sores. Settlers tried to make indigo blue from it, with only modest success. Eclectic physicians used 'baptisia' for feverish infections such as typhoid and an inflamed throat.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Antiseptic, antibacterial, fever-reducing, laxative.
Preparation and amount
Root, leaves.
Caution: Do not exceed the dose, too much can cause vomiting.
Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine
Attributed effects
For liver complaints; as a medicine for athletes, against cramps in arms and legs.
Preparation and amount
Boil the root; rub the water over arms and legs.
Caution: Poisonous in larger amounts: not internally without an expert.