Baptisia

Wild Indigo

Wild indigo. The root-bark of Baptisia tinctoria. (Not official.) Preparations corresponding to those of iris and euonymus can be obtained.

Extractum Baptisiae

Extract of baptisia. Dose, gr. j—gr. x.

Baptism, the resinoid, is much prescribed by eclectic practitioners. The dose is one to five grains.

Actions and Uses

The taste of baptisia is bitter and somewhat acrid. It increases the secretions of the glandular appendages of the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane. It possesses in large doses emeto-cathartic property, and may indeed excite violent gastro-intestinal inflammation; in small doses it is merely laxative. The resinoid baptisin, so called, has been studied by Rutherford, who found it to possess active cholagogue property. Given to dogs, it distinctly stimulates the hepatic functions and increases the production of bile. It is probable that it deserves to rank among the most efficient of the remedies of this group. It is indicated, therefore, in all the cases in which hepatic stimulants are desirable.