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 Wild
indigo is native to the Midwestern United States and continues to
grow primarily in this region. The root of wild indigo is used
medicinally. Wild indigo has been used in connection with the
following conditions: common cold/sore throat, infection, and
influenza.
Historically, wild indigo was most commonly used
to make a blue dye used to color clothing. It has also been used by
European herbalists to create remedies for ulcers and mouth, lymph
node, and throat infections.
Today it is believed that the
polysaccharides and proteins in wild indigo can be effect immune
system stimulators. This would explain why wild indigo products have
been used to fight the cold and flu. However, wild indigo is rarely
used alone and is most commonly found as a component in herbal
mixtures and remedy complexes. The root of the wild indigo contains
alkaloids, which also may contribute to its medicinal
actions.
Dosage and
Administration
Wild indigo is generally used in
combination with herbs such as Echinacea and thuja. A tincture, 1–2
ml three times per day, is sometimes used. When taking the whole
herb, 500–1,000 mg is taken as a tea three times
daily.
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