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Assam Indigo Leaf And Root Extract

Also known as: Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract, Indigo naturalis, Qing dai, Indigofera tinctoria extract, Indigofera tinctoria

Overview

Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract is primarily derived from *Indigofera tinctoria*, a plant historically valued for its natural blue dye and its role in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The extract contains bioactive compounds such as indigo and indirubin, which are responsible for its pharmacological effects. It is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory properties. Modern research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, has explored its clinical applications, particularly in inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and ulcerative colitis. While the evidence base is moderate, with some well-conducted randomized controlled trials, concerns regarding standardization and safety persist due to variability in preparation methods.

Benefits

Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, particularly in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Meta-analytical evidence supports its efficacy in ulcerative colitis, showing improved clinical remission and endoscopic healing compared to placebo or standard care. It also demonstrates antiviral activity, specifically neuraminidase inhibition against influenza viruses, and possesses antioxidant and antibacterial properties observed in in vitro and animal studies. Clinical trials and systematic reviews suggest potential benefits as an adjunctive therapy for psoriasis and certain leukemias. Patients with ulcerative colitis and psoriasis have shown measurable clinical improvements. In ulcerative colitis, benefits typically manifest over weeks to months of consistent treatment, with statistically significant improvements in clinical and endoscopic outcomes.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract are primarily attributed to its indigo and indirubin compounds. These compounds modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and regulating immune cell activity. The extract's antiviral effects against influenza viruses are linked to neuraminidase inhibition. Its antioxidant activity helps reduce oxidative stress, thereby protecting tissues. Furthermore, the extract is believed to influence gut microbiota composition, which may contribute to its beneficial effects in inflammatory bowel disease. The absorption and bioavailability of its active alkaloids, such as indirubin, are crucial for its systemic effects and can be influenced by preparation methods.

Side effects

Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision, though long-term use may lead to reversible adverse effects. Common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may involve transient elevations in liver enzymes. Rare side effects (less than 1%) can include allergic reactions or more severe hepatotoxicity, especially if dosing is improper or preparations are contaminated. Drug interactions are not extensively characterized, necessitating caution when co-administering with hepatotoxic drugs or immunosuppressants. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to the extract, and it should be used with caution in individuals with pre-existing liver disease. Sufficient safety data are lacking for special populations such as pregnant or lactating women and children.

Dosage

Clinical studies on ulcerative colitis typically utilize standardized indigo naturalis preparations, with oral dosages ranging from 0.5 to 2 grams daily. However, the optimal dosage can vary significantly based on the specific formulation, the concentration of active compounds (especially indirubin), and the intended therapeutic purpose. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, and excessive lime addition during manufacturing can impact both safety and efficacy. Consistent daily dosing is generally recommended. For some skin conditions, topical applications are also used. Absorption of active alkaloids may be enhanced when taken with food. While no specific cofactors are required, monitoring liver function is advisable during prolonged use to ensure safety.

FAQs

Is Assam Indigo Leaf and Root Extract safe for long-term use?

Long-term use may lead to reversible liver-related side effects; therefore, medical supervision and monitoring of liver function are strongly advised.

Can it be used for viral infections?

It has demonstrated neuraminidase inhibition in vitro, suggesting potential antiviral effects against influenza, but clinical evidence in humans is currently limited.

How quickly do benefits appear?

For chronic inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis, clinical benefits typically emerge gradually over several weeks to a few months of consistent treatment.

Is it effective for skin conditions?

Clinical trials support its use in psoriasis, but further research is needed to fully compare the efficacy of topical versus oral applications.

Are there standard formulations?

Quality control is challenging due to plant and manufacturing variability. Standardized extracts with known indirubin content are preferred for consistent efficacy and safety.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.957809/full – This experimental study investigated the microbial analysis of indigo fermentation from *Indigofera tinctoria* leaf powder. It found that the fermentation process significantly affects microbial communities, suggesting complex bioactivity that could influence the therapeutic properties of the extract. The research provides mechanistic insights into how the plant material interacts with microbial environments.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7734464/ – This systematic review synthesized various clinical and preclinical studies on indigo naturalis. It highlighted the extract's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, and its clinical efficacy in conditions like psoriasis, leukemia, and ulcerative colitis. The review noted limitations including the need for more large-scale randomized controlled trials and better quality control in formulations.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33317592/ – This systematic review, likely the same as the PMC link, further details the broad therapeutic potential of indigo naturalis. It confirms the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, alongside antiviral and antioxidant activities. The review emphasizes the need for standardized preparations and further research to establish optimal dosing and long-term safety across various indications.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38006941/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the efficacy of indigo naturalis in inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis. It concluded that indigo naturalis significantly improved clinical remission and endoscopic healing (p<0.05) in patients. The study, characterized by robust methodology, provides strong evidence for its use in IBD despite some heterogeneity in formulations across studies.