Scientific Name: Iris Versicolor Origin: United States
AKA: Flag-lily, Fleur-de-lis, Flower-de-luce, Iris, Liver Lily, Wild Iris, Poison Flag, Flag Lily, Snake Lily, Dragon Flower, Dagger Flower, Water Flag
Parts Used: Rhizome
Active Compounds: Volatile oil, containing furfural; Iridin (or Irisin), a Glycoside; Acids such as Salicylic and Isophthalic; a Monocyclic C3l Triterpenoid, gum, resin, sterols
Background: Due to the similarity in name and appearance before blooming, Blue Flag is often mistaken for Sweet Flag, or Calamus, which grows in the same localities. Blue Flag was historically used by Native American Indians as a cathartic and emetic. They used it to treat wounds and colds. Anglo-Americans then used it to treat liver and glandular problems.
Hepatic – Blue flag is thought to help in skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis by working through the liver and aiding in detoxification. It is also thought to aid in constipation associated with liver problems.
Description: Blue Flag is a perennial plant found in swamps and marshy areas in Eastern North America. It has also been exported and introduced to Europe. It grows approximately 2 – 3 ft. high and features narrow sword shaped leaves. It bears 2 – 3 large blue or purple flowers per stem which have yellow or whitish markings at the base. The Rhizome is harvested in the fall.
Blue Flag Dosage:
Decoction – Place 1 tsp of the dried rhizome in a cup of water, bring to a boil and simmer for 10 – 15 minutes. Drink three times per day.
Tincture – Take 1 ml, three times per day.
Safety: Blue Flag contains an acrid resin with acts of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas and may cause dermatitis in some people. Large doses of Blue Flag can cause vomiting. Do not use Blue Flag while pregnant.
For educational purposes only This Blue Flag information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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