Ban Lan Gen
Isatis indigotica Fort. (syn. Isatis tinctoria L.)
☯ TCM Properties
Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity; Cools the Blood; Benefits the Throat
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Isatis tinctoria L. and the closely related Isatis indigotica Fortune ex Lindl. (Brassicaceae) are biennial or short-lived perennial herbs growing 50-130 cm tall from a stout taproot. In the first year they form a basal rosette of bluish-green, oblong-lanceolate leaves; in the second year an erect, branched flowering stem bears clasping, arrow-shaped stem leaves and broad terminal panicles of small, four-petaled yellow flowers. These mature into pendent, flattened, single-seeded silicles that turn dark purple-brown. Native to the steppes of Central Asia, woad was introduced to Europe and East Asia for its leaves' indigo dye and is now cultivated medicinally. The root (Ban Lan Gen) and leaf (Da Qing Ye) are used in TCM and historically in Western herbalism to clear heat and toxins.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ban Lan Gen (isatis root) is a cold, bitter herb considered one of the most important herbs in Chinese medicine for clearing Heat toxin and dispersing swellings. It is widely used for acute infectious and inflammatory conditions — including sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, tonsillitis, influenza, and febrile illness — where Heat toxin is the primary pathogen. Its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties are well-recognized in modern Chinese herbal medicine, and it is one of the most popular herbs for cold and flu prevention in China.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.