Copaifera reticulata vs Indigo Naturalis

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Copaifera reticulata

Anti-inflammatory

Strobilanthes cusia

Anti-inflammatory

Copaifera reticulata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Indigo Naturalis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Amazon basin tree producing one of highest quality copaiba oleoresins, major source of beta-caryophyllene.

Tropical shrub of Southeast Asia; processed leaves yield indigo dye also used medicinally in TCM for anti-inflammatory and antitumor conditions.

Active Compounds

beta-caryophyllene, copalic acid, kaurenoic acid, sesquiterpenes

indirubin, indigo, tryptanthrin, beta-sitosterol, beta-sitosterol glucoside

Traditional Uses

Traditional Amazonian medicine for infections and inflammation, Used by Kayapo and other Amazonian tribes for wound healing

Inflammatory skin conditions in TCM, Oral mucosal conditions, Liver heat in TCM, Anti-inflammatory for IBD in Asian medicine

Modern Uses

CB2 receptor agonist via caryophyllene, Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing, Antimicrobial

Anti-inflammatory (indirubin for ulcerative colitis), Antitumor research, Antimicrobial, Antiviral

Adult Dosage

Oil topically; Capsule: 500mg 2x/day

1.5–3 g powder 3x daily for IBD; topical for skin conditions

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Kidney conditions

Pregnancy, Pulmonary arterial hypertension with prolonged high-dose use, Autoimmune conditions

Side Effects

Kidney irritation, Gastrointestinal upset

GI upset, Pulmonary hypertension with prolonged use, Blue discoloration of stool

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E