Ban Lan Gen (Isatis Root) Certified Organic Cut Herb (1 lb) — Traditional Throat & Seasonal Support
Ban Lan Gen (板蓝根), also called Isatis Root or Radix Isatidis, is a classic “clear heat and resolve toxicity” herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It’s most commonly used in seasonal wellness routines for throat comfort and internal “heat” patterns—especially in colder months.
Quick Summary: Certified organic cut Ban Lan Gen (Isatis root), single herb, no fillers. Best for short-term seasonal support and throat comfort patterns.
What Is Ban Lan Gen (Isatis Root)?
Ban Lan Gen is the dried root of Isatis indigotica (commonly used in Chinese herbalism). Some people confuse it with Isatis tinctoria (woad), a plant historically used for indigo dye in Europe. In Chinese herbal commerce, Ban Lan Gen typically refers to Isatis indigotica root.
Pro Tip for Buyers: If you’re comparing products online, confirm the botanical name. “Ban Lan Gen” is most often Isatis indigotica root.
Quick Facts
| Common name | Woad Root / Isatis Root |
| Botanical name | Isatis indigotica (root) |
| Pinyin name | Ban Lan Gen |
| Traditional category | Clear Heat & Resolve Toxicity |
| Meridians | Heart, Lung, Stomach |
| Taste / Temperature | Bitter / Cold |
| Form | Cut, Certified Organic |
| Pack size | 1 lb (bulk) |
| Other ingredients | None (single herb) |
Traditional Uses in TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ban Lan Gen is used in “heat toxin” pattern language. That language often corresponds to sensations like internal heat, irritation, and throat discomfort during seasonal challenges. Traditional functions include:
- Clears Heat (cooling support when “heat” signs are present)
- Resolves Toxicity (traditional phrase used in classic seasonal formulas)
- Benefits the Throat (a common reason people search for Ban Lan Gen)
- Cools the Blood (traditional framework)
Pro Tip: Many people use Ban Lan Gen short-term during winter months or seasonal discomfort rather than year-round.
What Research Says
Modern research has explored Isatis root for properties that match its traditional “cooling” role, including anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity in lab and preclinical models. Human outcomes can vary by preparation, dosage, timing, and the individual.
Areas researchers have studied
- Antiviral activity (lab) — Studies have explored how Isatis preparations may affect viral processes in vitro.
- Inflammation pathways (preclinical) — Some extracts have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in animal models.
- Prepared granules vs. bulk herb — Some clinical reviews focus on “Ban Lan Gen granules,” which are not identical to bulk cut root.
Important: This product is a bulk herb. It is not a drug and is not intended to treat infections. If you have severe symptoms, seek medical care.
How to Use Ban Lan Gen (Bulk Cut Form)
Option A: Decoction (most traditional for roots)
- Add 9–15 grams cut Ban Lan Gen to 2–3 cups of water.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, covered.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm.
Option B: Strong tea (simpler)
- Use 1–2 teaspoons per cup of hot water.
- Cover and steep 15–20 minutes.
- Strain. Adjust strength to preference.
New to bulk herbs? Use our step-by-step guide: How to Use Bulk Herbs
Common Herb Pairings (Traditional Approach)
In TCM, Ban Lan Gen is frequently paired with other “clear heat” herbs depending on pattern and constitution. Common pairings people ask about include:
- Jin Yin Hua (Honeysuckle) — traditional seasonal blends
- Lian Qiao (Forsythia) — commonly combined in classic “heat/toxin” frameworks
- Bo He (Mint) — often used for surface-level comfort and taste balance
If you take medications or have a complex health history, consult a qualified clinician before combining multiple herbs.
What Does Ban Lan Gen Taste Like?
Ban Lan Gen is typically bitter and “cooling” in traditional terms. If you’re sensitive to bitter flavors, consider:
- Using a slightly lower amount and building up slowly
- Blending with compatible aromatic herbs (practitioner-guided)
- Drinking warm (often easier than cold)
Cautions, Interactions, and Who Should Avoid Ban Lan Gen
- Do not use if pregnant or nursing unless supervised by a qualified clinician.
- Avoid with autoimmune disorders unless your clinician approves.
- If you take prescription medications, consult your pharmacist/clinician before use.
- Stop use if you experience adverse reactions.
When to seek medical care: high fever, breathing difficulty, dehydration, severe or worsening throat pain, rash, or symptoms lasting more than a few days.
Shop Ban Lan Gen (Isatis Root) — Certified Organic Cut (1 lb)
- Single-herb product (no fillers)
- Certified organic cut form
- Traditionally used for throat comfort + seasonal support routines
FAQs
Is Ban Lan Gen the same as Isatis leaf (Da Qing Ye)?
No. Ban Lan Gen is the root. Da Qing Ye refers to the leaf. They’re related but used differently in traditional practice.
Can I drink Ban Lan Gen every day?
Many people use it short-term in seasonal routines rather than daily long-term. For ongoing use, follow practitioner guidance—especially if you take medications.
How long should I simmer Ban Lan Gen?
For most home use, a gentle 15–20 minute simmer is common for cut root.
Does Ban Lan Gen interact with medications?
It may not be appropriate with certain conditions or medications. If you use prescriptions or have autoimmune conditions, consult your clinician or pharmacist before use.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4383212/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8360416/
http://alternativehealing.org/chinese_herb_index_pinyin_B.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4775799/
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/BanLanGen.html
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.
Nuherbs
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by in-house lab and independent third party lab. In-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatograph, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Microbacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen)
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
Nuherbs Lab Tested Ban Lan Gen is cut into small pieces. The pieces can be used to make an extract, or a decoction. If making an extract from the Ban Lan Gen be sure to use an alcohol which is at least 18% by Volume. Though I have read that some extract require 100% by volume*.
Traditional Chinese Herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs (Teas) emphasize harmony, and balance.
3 Reviews
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Very pleased
This is another herb that is hard to come by. It is essential in my work with Lyme & Co. High Quality, good price, fast shipping. I will be back. Thank you.
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Medicine
I'm not a TCM practitioner. I used Isatis to reduce COVID symptoms when they started worsening at day 30. I never drank more than 6 grams in a day (boiled 30 min as tea). The more I drank, the more the symptoms disappeared, to a point. I couldn't get the COVID symptoms to disappear with it entirely, but I had positive effects every time I drank it. The smell and taste are a bit rough, but survival is what it is. It seems to have halted my COVID progression (reversed course of disease). I am slowly recovering at day 45, fever broke 4 days ago. The head space was uncomfortable for me, so I suggest tapering up instead of all at once if you have the same effects. I used this in conjunction with MANY other treatments, but this is what appears to have reversed the course of my disease.
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Great product and great customer service!
Really impressed with customer service. When I had a product inquiry, the rep I had explained everything very comprehensively and patiently. I sincerely appreciate it. As well, their product is outstanding. Highly recommend.
