Indian indigo
Indigofera tinctoria
Indigofera tinctoria, commonly known as Indian indigo or true indigo, is traditionally used primarily for its natural dyeing properties. It has been historically significant in various cultures, particularly in textile dyeing and traditional medicine practices, though specific uses are not well-documented. Scientific evidence suggests that Indigofera tinctoria contains compounds like isatin which can be processed to form indirubin, a compound used for stable red hair coloring. Additionally, it has shown potential as a modulator of estrogen signaling without interfering with treatments for conditions such as ALS and PD. The plant also served as a source of blue dye in ancient carpets. Safety findings indicate no major issues have been recorded; however, the evidence base is limited. There are currently no reported drug interactions associated with Indigofera tinctoria.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This study found that Persian Qīng Dài was derived from Indigofera tinctoria, not mactra clam powder or other sources.
- The study found that adding isatin and a reducing agent like cysteine or ascorbic acid to Indigofera tinctoria L. dyeing processes leads to immediate formation of indirubin, resulting in stable red hair colouration.
- Indigofera tinctoria was identified as one of several plants with potential to modulate estrogen signaling without interfering with standard ALS and PD treatments.
- Indigofera tinctoria was identified as a source of blue dye in ancient carpets.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian indigo?
Indian indigo (Indigofera tinctoria) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Indian indigo?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Indian indigo; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This study found that Persian Qīng Dài was derived from Indigofera tinctoria, not mactra clam powder or other sources.
How strong is the evidence for Indian indigo?
The strongest finding for Indian indigo carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian indigo safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian indigo in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian indigo interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian indigo in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Indian indigo?
Indian indigo is also known as: Индигофера красильная, indigotier.
Is Indian indigo a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Exploring bioactive natural products for treating neurodegenerative diseases: a computational network medicine approach targeting the estrogen signaling pathway in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Indirubin as a red hair Colourant from Indigofera tinctoria L. literature abstract metadata
- T2 3D-Fluorescence Supported by Optical Reflectance and Raman Spectroscopy for the Analysis of Natural Dyes in Ancient Textiles: Potential and Limitations. literature abstract metadata
- T2 [Persian Qing Dai: A Bibliographical Study]. literature abstract metadata