Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Isatis, particularly Isatis tinctoria (woad) and Isatis indigotica (commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as "Ban Lan Gen"), has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for infections, especially respiratory tract infections. In traditional Chinese medicine, Isatis root and leaf are used to "clear heat" and "remove toxins," which often translates to treating symptoms of bacterial or viral infections. While there is some in vitro evidence suggesting Isatis extracts possess antibacterial and antiviral properties, these studies are preliminary and often do not translate reliably to clinical effectiveness in humans. Human clinical trials are limited, of poor methodological quality, or inconclusive. As such, while Isatis is traditionally used in place of or as an adjunct to antibiotics for mild infections, there is insufficient strong scientific evidence to recommend it as a true alternative to antibiotics for serious infections. Most support for its use comes from centuries of traditional practice rather than robust modern clinical validation. Practitioners should exercise caution and not substitute Isatis for prescribed antibiotics in the treatment of serious bacterial infections.

More about Isatis
More about Antibiotics (alternatives to)

Other ingredients used for Antibiotics (alternatives to)

Other health conditions supported by Isatis

Products containing Isatis