Wild indigo is a member of the pea family that naturally occurs throughout the Midwestern United States. The plant, once commonly used to make a blue dye, was introduced to European settlers by Native Americans, who were familiar with the herb’s properties.
The immune-modulating effects of wild indigo root are due to the presence of various polysaccharides, which stimulate the production of macrophages and enhances natural resistance to pathogens. However, this action may be detrimental to people with autoimmune disorders who struggle with chronic inflammation.
Applied topically, wild indigo preparations have an antiseptic effect. The root is also taken internally prepared as tea or tincture. It is traditionally combined with
echinacea,
goldenseal or
Oregon grape root.
