Blue Flag

Iris versicolor

Other Names: Iris versicolor, Iris, Iris caroliniana, Iris Versicolore, Iris virginica, Clajeux, Lirio Azul, Lis Bleu, Sweet Flag, Water Flag.
Blue flag is a perennial herb native to North America, and cultivated elsewhere in the world. People use the underground stem (rhizome) of blue flag to make medicine.
See also : Orris (Iris florentina)

Special Precautions of Blue Flag

• The rhizomes of Blue Flag can be dangerously toxic if taken internally in large doses, causing nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
• Poisoning can occur so it is best to consult with your health care provider before taking this herb for the treatment of your condition.
• Blue flag root should not be used by pregnant or lactating women or in cases of stomach or intestinal irritation, or diarrhea. Some people may have allergic skin reactions to blue flag root, and the fresh root may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It should not be taken by children. Keep Out of the Reach of Children
• Digoxin (Lanoxin) interacts with Blue Flag
• Warfarin (Coumadin) interacts with Blue Flag
• Water pills (Diuretic drugs) interacts with Blue Flag
• Do not confuse with Wild Irris.

Benefits and uses of Blue Flag are

Blue Flag has been known as the liver lily because of its dried and powdered rhizome was used as a remedy for impurities of the blood and diseases of the liver. Early American Indians regarded this herb as a virtual panacea and they used the flowers and leaves in a poultice for treating sores and bruises. Blue Flag constituents are iridin, volatile oils, salicylic and isophthalic acids, gum, resin, tannin and sterols. Dried root (rhizome) is the part used, fresh root for poultices.

• Blue Flag is mainly used to detoxify the body.
• increases urination and bile production
• Constipation : acts as a mild laxative.
• For Liver problems.
• Has been used for biliousness and in digestion and in small doses it relieves nausea and vomiting.
• Due to its cleansing properties, this herb works well in treating acne and eczema, especially when associated with gallbladder problems or constipation
• Skin rashes.
• as a weight loss aid.
• In folk medicine Blue Flag is used as a treatment for skin diseases, rheumatism, and syphilis.