Wild Indigo (Sarphoka, Saraponkh)

Wild indigo/Sarphoka (سرپھوکہ) also known as Purple tephrosia and Baptisia Australis, is a perennial plant that grows about 2 to 3 feet in height and grows a 3-leaved, bluish-green clover-like leaves. The flowers are blue and appear in numerous clusters.

Historically, the root of wild indigo was used by European herbalists to treat ulcers and several types of infections, including those affecting the mouth and gums, lymph nodes, and throat. The root contains alkaloids, which may contribute to its medicinal actions.

More recently and in part due to research which has shown that it can stimulate the immune system, it has been applied as an herbal remedy in the treatment of common colds, sore throats, infections and influenza.

It has also been found to be of use in the treatment of infections of the ear, nose and throat. It can be helpful as a treatment for laryngitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis and catarrhal infections of the nasal and sinus passages.

Side effects:

Pregnant or nursing women should not use wild indigo. There is some indication that large doses are toxic this can present as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ptyalism, tachycardia, respiratory paralysis and death.