Indigo Root

Latin Name
Baptisia tinctoria

Herb Class/Action
• Immune stimulant
• Antimicrobial
• Lymphatic tonic
• Alterative
• Antiseptic
• Astringent

Parts Used
• Root and rhizome

Flavors
• Bitter
• Earthy

Energetics
• Warming
• Drying

Traditional Benefits
Wild Indigo Root, long valued by Native American and Eclectic physicians, was traditionally used to “clean the blood” and resolve deep-seated infections. It gained a strong reputation as a lymphatic cleanser, particularly for swollen glands, festering wounds, and putrid conditions of the mucous membranes. Its potent action makes it ideal for fevers with sluggish lymph flow, sore throats with purple discoloration, and ulcerated tissues. In early American herbal medicine, it was often combined with Echinacea and Myrrh for systemic infections.

A Natural Allergy Ally
Though not typically used for allergies in the conventional sense, Wild Indigo indirectly supports immune modulation. By stimulating lymphatic drainage and fighting chronic infection, it may help the body clear inflammatory toxins that aggravate seasonal immune responses.

A Herb for Seasonal Support
Especially useful at the onset of infection, Wild Indigo Root is a go-to herb during flu season. It acts as an immune stimulant, supporting the body in fighting bacterial and viral threats. It shines in cases of sore throat with swollen glands, sluggish fever, or sinus infections with foul-smelling mucus.

How It Works
Rich in alkaloids (especially baptisin), coumarins, and polysaccharides, Wild Indigo stimulates phagocytosis and lymphatic circulation, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infection. Its antimicrobial and astringent properties help tighten and heal ulcerated tissues, while its alterative action supports the elimination of metabolic waste. Wild Indigo’s effects are systemic but particularly focused on the oral, respiratory, and digestive mucosa, as well as the lymphatic system.

Best Ways to Use It
Tincture/Extracts: 1–2 mL (1:5 in 60–70%) up to three times daily; best used in short durations during acute illness.
Capsules: Less common; may be used in immune blends.
Gargle: Diluted tincture for infected tonsils, ulcers, or spongy gums.
Topical Application: Infused oil or salve on ulcers or abscesses when diluted properly.

Fun Fact
Despite the name, Baptisia tinctoria is not the source of true indigo dye but was historically used as a substitute due to its rich yellow coloring. It was also sometimes used to create dyes for textiles in colonial America.

A Herb for Modern Use
Today, Wild Indigo Root is a powerful but often underused immune herb. Herbalists reach for it when infection is accompanied by systemic sluggishness—swollen lymph nodes, chronic sore throat, or low-grade fevers. It pairs well with Echinacea, Red Root, or Calendula for a lymphatic cleanse or with Goldenseal and Myrrh for septic conditions. Because of its strength, it is best used in low doses and only for short periods during acute infection. Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in large doses due to potential toxicity.