Ban Lan Gen (Radix Isatidis) is the root of Isatis tinctoria L. , family Cruciferae. The root is cleaned after harvesting, sun dried and cut into pieces for use. Traditionally it is used in its raw form, however, modern forms exist, such as Ban Lan Gen Keli. This form is granulated and freeze dried.

Category: Clearing heat and relieving toxicity.

Common Name: Isatis Root or Woad Root.

Channels Entered: Heart, Lung and Stomach.

Properties and Functions: It is bitter in flavour and cold in nature. Its main actions are clearing heat and removing toxins, cooling the blood and benefiting the throat.

Indications: The primary indication is for Wind-Heat pathogen disorders or seasonal febrile diseases. This also includes heat based epidemic disorders, painful, sore throat conditions in addition to damp-heat jaundice.

Dosage: 9 – 15g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: It is contra-indicated for cold and deficiency of Spleen and Stomach.