Isatis Root

The root of Isatis indigotica, a plant grown for the indigo blue dye drawn from its leaves (Da Qing Ye), also yields a very important root of the pharmacopoeia.

Harvested in autumn after two years of cultivation, dried then cut into rounds, it shows a grey-brown bark and a paler flesh.

It is one of the most used plants of the Qing Re register in China, particularly in the cold season, at the first signs of an outside assault.

The reference herb for neutralising the toxic accumulations the tradition ties to heat, particularly in the sphere of the upper breath.

Very popular in the Chinese household apothecary in the winter season, as a companion to the first signs of heat settled at the surface when it reaches the upper sphere.

• Decoction: 9 to 15 g, simmer for 25 minutes
• Seasonal infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup, in the cold season
• In seasonal cooking: added to winter broths, attached to constitutions sensitive to assaults at the surface

To be avoided in cases of deficient Yang with deep cold or of weak Earth with loose stools.