Blue Flag

Introduction

Blue flag is a perennial herb native to North America, and cultivated elsewhere in the world. It grows in shallow water, and is similar in appearance to other wild iris, and is sometimes mistaken for them. Blue flag root was a popular herbal treatment among Native American tribes, who used it to treat liver ailments and as a cathartic. Blue flag root is the source of iridin (irisin), a glycoside used as a purgative and liver stimulant.

Constituents

Iridin, also called iridin, volatile oils, salicylic and isophthalic acids, gum, resin, tannin and sterols

Parts Used

Dried Root (rhizome) or fresh root for poultices

Typical Preparations

In teas, extracts and rarely capsules. Used for poultices.

Summary

Once officially listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia, blue flag has been used medicinally for centuries to detoxify the body and treat sluggish liver action. Taken internally as a tea, it is a strong laxative, diuretic and emetic. Dried root is milder than fresh root, and it's recommended that dried root be used for infusions and teas. Applied topically, it may reduce inflammation, relieve pain and inhibit infection in bruised, swollen or injured joints.

Precautions

Blue flag root should not be used by pregnant or lactating women. Some people may have allergic skin reactions to blue flag root, and the fresh root may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It should not be taken by children.

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