webdeveloperIndigo plant is not only useful for the color of the clothing, but also to treat various skin conditions. Indigo plant is one of the best natural remedies for treating psoriasis and eczema. In addition, indigo plant is also known to help cure athlete’s foot. Indigofera tinctoria L., commonly called indigo plant, is a perennial herb native to the eastern United States, where it grows wild along streams and rivers. This plant blooms between June and August and produces white flowers at the top of its tall stems. The plant contains alkaloids including indirubin, indoxyl sulfate, purpurin and tryptanthrin. These compounds have been shown to have antibacterial activity.
Indigo plant helps in healing wounds and burns. The plant’s extract, indigo dye, is applied directly to affected area and left to dry. The dried extract is then powdered and mixed with olive oil, rose water and honey. The mixture is massaged onto affected parts of the body. The plant is believed to strengthen bones and muscles. It is also helpful in reducing swelling of joints caused by arthritis and rheumatism.
To make an herbal remedy from indigo plant, first collect the fresh leaves. Put them in a blender and add sufficient amount of water. Then blend until smooth. Finally strain out any impurities. Make sure to use pure filtered water, otherwise your treatment may become ineffective. You can drink this tea warm or chilled, depending upon how much relief you need. Try this home remedy if you want to treat fungal infections of scalp, nails, lips, and feet.
You can also apply cream based on indigo plant extract to the affected area and leave it overnight. Mix about 1 tablespoon of indigo plant extract with 2 tablespoons of almond oil, ¼ cup of coconut milk, and ½ teaspoon of essential oils. Apply to affected areas, especially around the eyes. Repeat application once per day until healed.
If you suffer from acne problems, try using indigo plant extract instead of commercial products. Do not overdo it, however, since excessive use of indigo can cause digestive irritation.
Indigo plant is also known as blue lotus. It is one of the oldest medicinal herbs known to mankind. According to Chinese traditional medicine, indigo plant is effective in treating fever, menstrual disorders, stomach aches, poor digestion, sore throat, and asthma. It is one of those rare plants that can heal even cancer cells.
Indigo plant requires partial shade and regular watering. This plant is easily propagated by seedlings. Seeds should be planted in small pots filled with pebbles, sand, and compost. Keep the seedling moist as they germinate. When the roots reach approximately 6 inches long, transplant them into larger pots containing rich, well-drained soil. If the weather is cool, place the pot near a window. Otherwise, keep it indoors under lights set to a temperature of 65°F. Propagate blue lotus seeds by planting them in individual flats containing a good quality potting mix.
The best time to harvest indigo is in early March, when the flower buds begin to open. Harvest the entire plant before it begins to bloom. Cut off the stem close to the root and put the plant in a shady location for two weeks. After that period, you can either hang the plant upside down to dry or cut the plant back several times. Hang the dried leaves in bunches in a dark room for 1 month. Once the plant becomes brittle, grind it in a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. Store the ground material away from sunlight or it could turn brown.
While indigo is widely used in the textile industry, it is also gaining popularity among consumers who seek alternative forms of beauty care. Use indigo plant extract as a shampoo additive to improve hair condition and prevent dandruff. Simply soak the hair in a solution made by mixing equal amounts of water, indigo plant extract, and lemon juice. Rinse thoroughly after 5 minutes.
Apply the same solution to the face and remove with a washcloth. To avoid irritation, follow these directions carefully.
Mix together equal amounts of water, vinegar, indigo leaf extract, and glycerine. Leave the facial mask on for 15 minutes. Wash off with clear water.
Use the same technique for nail care. Add indigo plant extract to a bowl and mix with enough white vinegar to create a thick paste. Dip clean fingers for 10 seconds in the paste and rinse immediately. Repeat the process twice daily.
By applying indigo plant extract to wounds, scars will disappear faster than normal. Just rub the indigo plant extract into the wound as often as possible. Cover the treated area with aloe vera and bandage it tightly.
Can you grow indigo in pots?
Yes! Indigo is a perennial herbaceous plant that produces blue flowers and requires cooler temperatures than other tropical crops. Indigofera tinctoria is native to Africa and Mexico, where its seeds have been cultivated since ancient times. In the early 1900’s, indigo was grown commercially as a dye-producing crop.
Indigo is low maintenance and doesn’t require much water at all. It thrives best in warm climates and grows well inside or out. Indoors, grow it in a sunny window in a potting mix with some sand. Outdoors, place it in a container filled with rich loam. If you live in a temperate climate, consider planting it outside before frost sets in; it’ll stay green until fall. You’ll need about 4 gallons of soil per plant.
Is it hard to grow indigo?
Indigo is a dark blue pigment present in both the seeds of the plant and the mature flower buds. Both the seed and bud have similar chemical structure. In fact, some say that the seeds are just small flowers.
Cannabis grows best at warm temperatures. However, if the temperature is too hot, it can cause the flower to turn brown, even black. As well, if the temperature is cold, then the buds may become smaller. If these conditions persist, then the plant may not produce any buds.
Indica strains prefer cooler climates, while sativa strains tend to favor warmer weather. These two types of plants generally do not mix well in the same garden space. However, they do complement each other. Sativas provide uplifting energy and stimulate creative ideas. Indicas offer relaxation and calmness.
Indigofera suffruticosa was originally thought to be native to India. It’s been cultivated in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, and Thailand. However, it’s native habitat is Indonesia.
Indigofera species are perennial herbs. They can reach heights between 15-40 feet tall and have long, thin leaves. Many times, the leaves are spear shaped, similar to ferns. Their trunks and branches are woody and can withstand harsh elements.
Indigofera plants require full sun. Most varieties need between 10-30 hours of sunlight per day. As well, the soil should be rich in organic matter and free of compaction. When planting, use an extra layer of mulch around the base of the root ball to prevent weeds and conserve moisture. After 8 weeks, add 1 inch of compost or aged manure. To keep weeds down, apply 0.25-0.5 inches of slow release fertilizer monthly. Water regularly throughout the season.
Indigofera can be grown indoors using a hoop house. Make sure your greenhouse has good ventilation so that it doesn’t get too hot inside! You might also consider putting your plants in the garage.
