Botanical Overview
Baptisia tinctoria, commonly known as Yellow Wild Indigo, Horsefly Weed, or St. John’s Wort False Indigo, belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to Eastern and Southeastern North America, this herb’s roots and aerial parts are utilized medicinally.
Energetics
It has warming and drying properties, with a taste profile that is bitter and acrid. The energetics suggest a descending and outward directionality, tonifying the qi system.
Primary Actions
- Immunostimulant
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Lymphatic support
Indications
Western
- Respiratory infections
- Sore throat
- Lymphadenitis
- Skin infections
- Fever
Syndromes
- Infection
- Lymphatic congestion
- Chronic inflammation
TCM
No traditional uses identified.
Ayurveda
No traditional uses identified.
Unani
No traditional uses identified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains alkaloids, flavonoids, isoflavones, and phenolic compounds believed to contribute to its immunostimulant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 45% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
- Decoction of root 2-4 g, 1-2 times daily
- Infusion of aerial parts 3-6 g per day
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution as high doses may cause toxicity. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to possible uterine stimulant effects and limited safety data. Sensitivity to Fabaceae plants and potential gastrointestinal upset may occur. Avoid with immunosuppressive drugs.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable planetary or elemental attributions found.
Selected References
- Therapeutic Guide to Medicinal Plants
- American Herbal Pharmacopoeia Monograph on Baptisia spp.
- German Commission E Monographs
- Medical Botany by Lewis & Elvin-Lewis