Wild Indigo, Horseflyweed

Baptisia tinctoria

Physical Characteristics

Baptisia tinctoria is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf from April to October, in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Virginia to Florida.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked. An asparagus substitute[2, 105, 161, 177]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Adaptogen Alterative Antibacterial Antiseptic Astringent Cholagogue Emetic Febrifuge Homeopathy Purgative Stimulant Wild indigo was a favourite medicine of the N. American Indians, a decoction of the roots being used as an antiseptic wash for wounds and skin complaints. Modern research has shown that this acrid bitter herb stimulates the immune system and is particularly effective against bacterial infections. Caution is advised in the internal use of this plant, large or frequent doses are potentially harmful. A tea made from the roots is cholagogue, emetic, febrifuge and purgative. The fresh root is also considered to be antiseptic, astringent and laxative. The infusion is used in the treatment of upper respiratory infections such as tonsillitis and pharyngitis, and is also valuable in treating infections of the chest, gastro-intestinal tract and skin.The plants antimicrobial and immune-stimulant properties combat lymphatic problems, when used with detoxifying herbs such as Arctium lappa it helps to reduce enlarged lymph nodes. Wild indigo is frequently prescribed, along with Echinacea, in the treatment of chronic viral infections or chronic fatigue syndrome. A decoction of the root soothes sore or infected nipples and infected skin conditions. When used as a mouth wash or gargle the decoction treats mouth ulcers, gum infections and sore throats. The fresh root, including the bark, is used to make a homeopathic medicine. This has a limited range of action, but is used especially in the treatment of certain types of flu.

Known Hazards

The plant is poisonous in large quantities[21, 46]. Irritation of the eyes. May cause dermatitis. Avoid with inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases [301].