
Isatis tinctoria (Isatis Root)
Isatis Root (Isatis tinctoria) is particularly valued for its potent antibacterial effects, especially against difficult-to-treat infections. Buhner recommends it for combating bacterial co-infections commonly seen in Lyme disease, such as Bartonella, Mycoplasma, Candida, and even for Aspergillus mold infection. The root’s antibacterial action is crucial for addressing persistent infections and biofilm-related issues.
Isatis Root also crosses the blood-brain barrier, making it effective for treating neurological symptoms associated with Lyme. For the most effective treatment, Buhner suggests using both the leaf and root together, as the antiviral leaf complements the antibacterial root, providing comprehensive support for the body’s immune system.
*Isatis Root is also available in powder.
Isatis Root (Isatis tinctoria) is particularly valued for its potent antibacterial effects, especially against difficult-to-treat infections. Buhner recommends it for combating bacterial co-infections commonly seen in Lyme disease, such as Bartonella, Mycoplasma, Candida, and even for Aspergillus mold infection. The root’s antibacterial action is crucial for addressing persistent infections and biofilm-related issues.
Isatis Root also crosses the blood-brain barrier, making it effective for treating neurological symptoms associated with Lyme. For the most effective treatment, Buhner suggests using both the leaf and root together, as the antiviral leaf complements the antibacterial root, providing comprehensive support for the body’s immune system.
*Isatis Root is also available in powder.
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PRODUCT DETAILS
INGREDIENTS
CLINICAL USES
| Antiviral | Particularly effective against viral co-infections like Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), which are common in chronic Lyme disease. |
| Immune Support | Boosts immune function, enhancing the body’s ability to combat chronic infections like Borrelia (Lyme) and viral co-infections. |
| Anti-Inflammatory | Reduces inflammation in the body, alleviating joint pain, muscle soreness, and neurological symptoms in Lyme patients. |
| Detoxification | Aids the body in detoxifying, particularly useful during Herxheimer reactions or when clearing out microbial toxins. |
| Respiratory Support | Supports lung health and helps with symptoms of respiratory infections, including those linked to co-infections like Mycoplasma pneumoniae. |
| Antioxidant | Provides antioxidant support, helping to reduce oxidative stress in Lyme patients and protect against cellular damage. |
| Liver Support | Helps support liver function, important for patients undergoing intensive antimicrobial treatments or detoxification. |
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
CAUTIONS & WARNINGS
Synergistic Products:
14 reviews for Isatis tinctoria (Isatis Root)
Additional Information About Isatis tinctoria (Isatis Root)
References
- 1. Isatis tinctoria L. (Woad): A Review of its Botany, Ethnobotanical Uses, Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, and Biotechnological Studies. Speranza J, Miceli N, Taviano MF, Ragusa S, Kwiecień I, Szopa A, Ekiert H. Plants (Basel). 2020 Mar 1;9(3):298. doi: 10.3390/plants9030298. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32121532/
- 2. Indole alkaloid glycosides from Isatis tinctoria roots. Zhang D, Du K, Zhao Y, Shi S, Wu Y, Jia Q, Chen K, Li Y, Wang R. Nat Prod Res. 2021 Jan;35(2):244-250. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2019.1624960. Epub 2019 Jun 7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31174427/
- 3. Hydroalcoholic Leaf Extract of Isatis tinctoria L. via Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects Reduces Stress-Induced Behavioral and Cellular Disorders in Mice. Nicosia N, Kwiecień I, Mazurek J, Mika K, Bednarski M, Miceli N, Ragusa S, Ekiert H, Maes M, Kotańska M. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2022 Jun 25;2022:3567879. doi: 10.1155/2022/3567879. eCollection 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35795852/
FAQ
What makes Apex Botanical tinctures different from other herbal tinctures?
Our tinctures stand out due to the premium quality of herbs we use. Crafted at a concentration of 1:4, our herbal tinctures prioritize both potency and effectiveness.
Unlike many other companies that employ a uniform alcohol percentage across all products, our approach is nuanced. We tailor the alcohol concentration for each herb based on the distinct medicinal properties of the plant.
This strategy reflects our commitment to a sophisticated extraction of medicinal compounds, effectively setting Apex Botanicals apart in the realm of herbal tinctures.
How should I consume my herbal tincture?
Herbal tinctures are generally taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before and after meals). They can be taken directly or added to 1oz of water if the taste is hard to swallow.
Dosing of herbal tinctures will generally vary from 1 drop once per day up to 1 tsp 3 times per day. When taking anti-microbial herbal tinctures, starting at a lower dose and increasing slowly is the general rule of thumb.
*Be sure to speak with your primary care provider to determine the correct dose for your needs.
How long should I take my herbal tincture for?
The length of time a tincture should be taken will vary considerably based on your state of health, the infection / symptom you’re trying to treat and other medications or treatments you are concurrently taking.
Most people with chronic tick-borne infections take an herbal tincture for between 3 months and 2 years.
As a general rule, its recommended to take an herbal tincture for at least 1 month to see the best results.
Are herbal tinctures safe for children?
Generally speaking, it is safe for children to consume herbal tinctures, but dosing should be adjusted. Refrence 'Clarks Rule' for further information.
*Always consult your primary care provider before starting a new protocol or giving your child herbal tinctures.
Are herbal tinctures safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Some herbs are strictly contraindicated in pregnancy and should be avoided. We do our best to indicate this on the product information page but are not held liable for any errors or omissions.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult your primary care provider before consuming any herbal tinctures.
Will my herbal tincture interact with medications or supplements?
Interactions of herbal tinctures with medications or supplements do exist. We strongly recommended consulting with your primary care provider or pharmacist before taking any herbal tinctures if you are concerned about potential contraindications.
What does a 1:4 ratio imply and how does it compare to 1:2 or 1:5+?
The ratio describes the concentration of a tincture. We use a 1:4 ratio, meaning 1 part dried herb (in grams) to 4 parts menstruum (the combined alcohol and herb).
A ratio of 1:5 has more liquid to the same amount of herb and is therefore more diluted.
A ratio of 1:10 or higher is very diluted and requires very high daily doses and is not recommended.
Tinctures made at 1:2 are often too concentrated for Lyme patients and commonly induce Herx reactions that can be very intense.
Most tinctures on the market are made at 1:5. We’ve chosen to use 1:4 to ensure greater potency while still being very safe and tolerable.
Does higher alcohol content mean an herbal tincture is more or less potent?
Using the correct alcohol percentage to extract the specific medicinal constituents of that herb is of highest importance when making a tincture. Using more or less alcohol essentially reflects the chemical nature of the compounds that we want to extract into the liquid portion.
A tincture made at 40% versus one made at 80% is not twice at strong. It simply implies that for the first herb, 40% alcohol will optimally extract the medicinal qualities. For the second herb, 80% is the concentration for optimal extraction.
We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure that our tinctures are made using the correct concentrations.
*Please note that not all herbal tinctures on the market are made with the appropriate alcohol concentration so use our site as a reference or conduct your own research to make sure you’re purchasing the best formulated tincture possible.
Click here to read our complete list of Frequently Asked Questions.
SHARING THE GIFT OF WELLNESS
Free Herbal Protocol Guide for Lyme & Co-Infections
This comprehensive educational guide, developed by our Medical Director, Dr. Sal Meli ND, provides evidence-based insight into the physiological mechanisms of tick-borne infections and the supportive role of botanicals in addressing these challenges.
This resource is designed to simplify complex concepts and empower readers to make informed decisions about their approach to tick-borne infections.





I found Isatis through Buhner’s Lyme book and wanted to try it from a source I trust. It’s been a helpful part of the routine, especially when I feel run down and have that “toxic” feeling
This has been useful for me during tougher stretches when my head feels full and my body feels inflamed and reactive. I’m not saying it’s magic, but it’s been a supportive piece in the bigger plan.
I like having Isatis as an option when I’m increasing other herbs and I can feel that herx-style intensity creeping in. It’s been part of how I try to support my system without pushing too hard.
so helpful!!
I found Isatis through Stephen Buhner’s books and wanted a reliable source for it. I’m happy with the quality and it’s been a useful addition for immune support when I feel off.
I started this during a stretch when my fatigue and “hit by a truck” feeling was louder than usual. It didn’t erase anything overnight, but it felt like supportive backup while I stayed consistent with the rest of my stack.
I’m following a Lyme-focused herbal approach and Isatis was on my short list. It’s been a good fit when I’m trying to stay steady through the ups and downs of a protocol.