Isatis
Other names for Isatis
ban lan gen
ban lan gen root extract, dry
baphicacanthus
da qing
da qing ye
dried isatis root extract
dyer\'s woad
dyer\'s-woad extract
dyer\'s woad root extract
dyers woad root extract
indigo
indigo dried leaf liquid extract
indigo extract
indigo leaf extract, dry
indigowoad
indigowoad 10:1 extract
indigowoad root extract
isatis
isatis extract
isatis extract, powder
isatis indigotica
isatis indigotica extract
isatis indigotica leaf extract, dry
isatis indigotica root extract
isatis indigotica root extract, powder
isatis leaf
isatis leaf extract
isatis root
isatis (root) 5:1 extract
isatis root extract
isatis root & leaf
isatis root & leaf extract
isatis tinctoria
isatis tinctoria extract
isatis tinctoria leaf extract
isatis tinctoria leaf extract, dry
isatis tinctoria leaf, root extract
isatis tinctoria root and leaf extract
isatis tinctoria root extract
isatis tinctoria root extract, dry
wildcrafted ban lan gen extract
wildcrafted ban lan gen (isatis tinctoria) dried root liquid extract
wild harvested ban lan gen extract
woad
woad extract
woad (isatis indigotica) dried leaf liquid extract
woad leaf extract, dry
Synopsis of Isatis
History
Isatis, commonly known as Isatis tinctoria or "woad," has a long and respected history in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese and European herbal practices. For centuries, Isatis root (Ban Lan Gen) and leaf (Da Qing Ye) have been prized for their potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Isatis is considered a key herb for clearing heat and detoxifying the body, making it a popular remedy during epidemics and for treating ailments such as sore throats, fever, and respiratory infections.
Historically, Isatis was used to combat serious infections such as mumps, measles, and even plague due to its believed ability to "cool the blood" and eliminate toxins. Its extracts have been employed in decoctions, teas, and topical applications, offering relief from skin conditions and supporting immune health. The herb's blue dye was also used historically, but its medicinal applications have always been highly valued in herbal traditions.
In herbal combinations, Isatis is often blended with other powerful botanicals such as Forsythia, Lonicera (honeysuckle), and Scutellaria (baical skullcap) to enhance its antiviral and immune-supportive effects. These synergistic formulas are widely used to address colds, flu, and upper respiratory tract infections, providing broad-spectrum support. Modern research continues to affirm Isatis’s valuable role in nutritional products, recognizing its contributions to immune resilience and overall wellness. Its legacy as a trusted remedy underscores its importance in both historical and contemporary herbal medicine.
Traditional and scientific validation
Isatisis, commonly derived from the plant Isatis tinctoria (woad), has a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbal practices. Historically, extracts from the root and leaves of Isatis have been incorporated into formulas to support immune health and to manage symptoms associated with seasonal ailments. The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including indigo, indirubin, and various flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its purported health benefits.
Modern scientific investigations have begun to explore the potential of Isatisis as a nutritional ingredient. Preliminary in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts from Isatis tinctoria may possess anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. For instance, certain laboratory studies indicate that Isatisis components can inhibit the replication of common cold viruses and modulate immune responses. Additionally, some clinical studies in Asia have evaluated Isatis-containing herbal blends for their effects on upper respiratory tract infections, with mixed but generally encouraging results.
While these early findings are promising, comprehensive clinical trials focused on Isatisis as a standalone nutritional ingredient are limited. The mechanisms behind its effects and optimal dosages remain areas for further research. Nevertheless, the historical use and emerging scientific data highlight Isatisis as a valuable and intriguing component in nutritional products, particularly those aimed at supporting immune function. Continued research will help clarify its role and efficacy, but current evidence suggests that Isatisis offers interesting potential as a natural health-supportive ingredient.
Isatis is used for these health conditions
Abscesses (Traditional)
Acne (Traditional)
Adenitis (Traditional)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Carbuncles (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Cholera (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Congestion (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (lymphatic) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Contagious Diseases (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diphtheria (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Epstein Barr Virus (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gangrene (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gonorrhea (Traditional)
Herpes (Traditional)
Isatis is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)