Qingdai (Indigo Naturalis) is a dried powder, lump, or granule prepared from the leaves or stems and leaves of Baphicacanthus cusia, Polygonum tinctorium or Isatis indigotica. Indigo Naturalis contains inorganic components such as calcium carbonate and silicon dioxide, as well as organic components such as alkaloids, organic acids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, steroids, etc. Indigo Naturalis has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antitumor, and immunomodulatory effects. Indigo Naturalis is clinically used for ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, acute promyelocytic leukemia, atopic dermatitis, etc. Long-term and excessive consumption of Indigo Naturalis can cause toxic side effects such as liver damage, pulmonary arterial hypertension, acute colitis, intussusception, and kidney damage. This article reviews the research progress in the chemical composition, pharmacological effects, clinical applications, and toxic side effects of Indigo Naturalis, providing a reference for the in-depth research and development of Indigo Naturalis.

Indigo Naturalis  /  anti-viral  /  anti-inflammatory  /  antibacterial  /  antioxidant  /  antitumor  /  immunomodulation