{"id":278,"date":"2020-07-01T11:03:00","date_gmt":"2020-07-01T10:03:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/84.18.216.250\/~herbalreality\/?post_type=herb&p=278"},"modified":"2025-04-09T11:56:12","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T10:56:12","slug":"andrographis","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/andrographis\/","title":{"rendered":"Andrographis"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":585,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"df61f371-c25e-413d-8c7a-27e1e0fd7da6","beyondwords_preview_token":"e905e0b6-523c-4aa6-a1b7-a19d9c9531b1","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[52,41,53,42,54,46,43],"conditions":[685,694,701,699,695,700,697],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[18,786,16],"western_action":[1008,989,991,992,993,994,996,1831,1001,1004,1006,1013,1014,1015],"chinese_action":[1168,1033,1031],"ayurvedic_action":[1057,1071,1072,1105,1082,1066,1070,1087],"energetics_action":[1498,1512,1501,1383,1505,1533,1487,1554,1530,1543,1523,1552,1497,1539,1527,1529,1492,1549,1377],"region":[1897],"class_list":["post-278","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-andrographis","tag-bitter","tag-cold","tag-digestion","tag-flu","tag-hot","tag-indigestion","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-immune-system","conditions-musculoskeletal-system","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-skin","conditions-urinary-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-bitter","sense-cooling","sense-hot","western_action-diuretic","western_action-alterative","western_action-anthelmintic","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-antirheumatic","western_action-antiviral","western_action-bitter","western_action-cholagogue-and-choleretic","western_action-depurative","western_action-hepatic","western_action-hepatoprotective","western_action-immunomodulant","chinese_action-clear-heat-dry-damp","chinese_action-clear-heat-and-relieve-toxicity","chinese_action-drain-fire","ayurvedic_action-rakta-shodhana-rakta-prasadana","ayurvedic_action-daha-prasamana","ayurvedic_action-dipaniya","ayurvedic_action-swasahara","ayurvedic_action-lekhaniya","ayurvedic_action-bhedaniya","ayurvedic_action-chedana","ayurvedic_action-pachana","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-bitter-taste-chinese","energetics_action-chinese","energetics_action-cold","energetics_action-cold-temperature-chinese","energetics_action-cooling","energetics_action-dry","energetics_action-kapha-constitution-dosha","energetics_action-large-intestine","energetics_action-light","energetics_action-lung","energetics_action-pitta-constitution-dosha","energetics_action-pungent","energetics_action-pungent-post-digestive-effect-vipaka","energetics_action-small-intestine","energetics_action-stomach","energetics_action-toning","energetics_action-vata","energetics_action-western","region-ayurvedic-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20200701","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Andrographis is commonly known as \u201cking of bitters\u201d in India","latin_name":"Andrographis paniculata<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Acanthaceae","herb_summary":"Andrographis is a bitter digestive tonic useful during convalescence, and with evidence for immunological activity, it is a herb that is invaluable for treating and preventing viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.","key_benefits":"Viral infections\r\nRespiratory infections\r\nDigestive conditions\r\nLiver disease\r\nSkin conditions\r\nUrinary infections\r\nRheumatic conditions","how_does_it_feel":"The intense bitterness of this herb is its overwhelming sensory property. The initial aroma of the herb or its tea or extract is rather animal-like. However on tasting there are waves of varying bitter flavours, and a bitter aftertaste that can linger for hours if no other food or drink is taken. Almost hidden after initial taste impact however is a slight but distinct heat.","hdif_image_1":3401,"hdif_image_2":60,"hdif_image_3":62,"hdif_video":"","sense":[18,786,16],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"\"\"\r\n\r\nThis popular and traditional Ayurvedic Herbal Medicine, known as the \u2018King of bitters\u2019<\/span> has a strong reputation as a bitter digestive tonic, used especially during convalescence, after infectious illness and also in parasitic infestation. A potent herb that <\/span>can be <\/span>applied during and after viral infection.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis clears toxins and other metabolic by-products from the blood, making it a great herb for skin conditions especially where they are caused by poor detoxification in the liver. These skin conditions are often red, inflammatory, itching and hot. Note: Consulting a herbalist for chronic <\/span>skin conditions <\/span>is often most effective. Herbalists are trained to identify the unique causes of such conditions.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt has <\/span>also<\/span> been shown to stimulate the <\/span>immune system<\/span>, especially white blood cell activity. It can also counter the damaging effects of free radicals<\/span> due to its ability to detoxify the blood and antioxidant properties (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis is also an excellent choice for treating conditions of the <\/span>respiratory system<\/span>. It can be used for both bacterial and viral infections, including the common cold and pharyngotonsillitis and also both prophylactically and in treatment of viral respiratory infections including the common cold and flu (1, 2, 5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a bitter digestive there is likely to be additional benefit in the treatment of infections in the gut, including even parasitic infestation. It may help with gallbladder and bilious conditions <\/span>as it both protects the liver from toxins and <\/span>stimulates bile production and flow.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt can also be considered for prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections<\/span> (5).<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"\"\"Since<\/span> A<\/span>ndrographis is energetically \u201ccold\u201d (meaning it reduces circulatory and heat-generating activity and enhances digestion and detoxification), it may be taken in combination with \u201cwarm\u201d herbs (such as ginger and astragalus), especially in a cold, debilitated constitution.<\/span>\r\n\r\nKnown as chuan xin lian in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis was traditionally characterised as a bitter (or, in the terminology of TCM, \u2018cooling, drying\u2019) remedy. It is used in modern Chinese medicine to eliminate toxins (\u2018heat\u2019), especially in disorders of the lungs, throat, urinary system, and skin. \u2018Heat\u2019 patterns in Chinese medicine involve active inflammation, infection, swelling, and, often, burning pain.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nExamples in which <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis showed most benefit include raw sore throats, influenza, bronchitis, lung infections and fever. Andrographis is believed to have particular benefit with \u2018damp heat\u2019 patterns affecting excretory functions, particularly those relating to the liver, bile and kidneys, and is used when these were associated with diarrhoea, dysentery, and urinary problems. Externally, <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis was used in TCM to treat oozing wounds, sores, carbuncles, scalds, boils, burns, eczema, and snakebites.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn the Western Herbal Medicine approach, Andrographis would be considered \u2018cold in the first degree\u2019. An extremely bitter herb that is able to clear heat through liver and through blood detoxification, thus reducing heat and inflammation throughout the body.\u00a0<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"\"\"The bitter taste of the herb indicates that choleretic (bile stimulating) claims are likely, and there are traditional applications for liver problems<\/span> in both Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbal Medicine.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn Ayurveda, the ancient healing system of India, <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis was used as a bitter tonic, a remedy against intestinal parasites, and a general stomach tonic. It was said to increase appetite, strengthen digestion, and diminish flatulence, hyperacidity, and biliousness.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt was also used in the management of many more complex conditions, including diabetes, hepatitis, and general debility.\u00a0 It was specifically used for feverish stomach complaints in young children and to help weak, convalescing individuals regain appetite and strength after illness.<\/span>\r\n\r\nKalamegha literally means \u2018black cloud\u2019 perhaps attesting to Andrographis being traditionally harvested just before winter. Andrographis is also known as bhunimba meaning \u2018Neem of the earth\u2019 referring to its bitter neem-like taste and effects.<\/span>\r\n<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"

\"\"<\/b>Immunity<\/h3>\r\nAndrographis is a wonderful herb used both for viral infections and infestations. In the treatment viral infections, Andrographis works via a direct anti-viral action, whilst enhancing the immune function.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis is indicated where there is lowered immunity and acute and chronic infections. It is an immune stimulant rather than solely being anti-bacterial and can be used to reduce symptoms in influenza, upper respiratory tract infections such as common cold, coughs, sinusitis, sore throats, otitis media, and also for urinary infections and vaginitis.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis is additionally used to inhibit histamine release (4) which may be useful for use in mild allergies. Due to its antiviral activity, Andrographis may also be therapeutically useful in Herpes simplex and H. Zoster infection (4).<\/span>\r\n

Liver<\/h3>\r\nAndrographis <\/span>is both a liver protector that also improves liver function.<\/span> It works by i<\/span>ncreas<\/span>ing<\/span> bile flow and offers protection to hepatocytes (liver cells), and with its bitter and cooling qualities, is well suited to liver infections and inflammation. As <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis has very effective hepatoprotective as well as anti-viral activity, it should be considered in hepatitis and all forms of sluggish liver where there is a reduced ability to digest fats or alcohol.<\/span>\r\n

\"Andrographis<\/b>Digestion<\/h3>\r\nAndrographis is an excellent herb of choice where there is a complete loss of appetite.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis was used historically in bacillary dysentery and enteritis. And including gut infections with parasites, protozoa and fungi. When <\/span>A<\/span>ndrographis is combined with warming aromatic herbs such as Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum<\/em>) and Cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum<\/em>) it can stimulate the appetite and reduce <\/span>excess<\/span> mucus.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThere are many digestive applications of this herb, particularly where poor liver function leads to poor assimilation of nutrients (due to low bile derived enzymatic activity). Poor liver function may also be a cause for haemorrhoids, Andrographis both improves the liver detoxification and acts as a mild laxative, making it a good option for ongoing haemorrhoids (5)<\/span>\r\n\r\nAndrographis is indicated for parasitic infections, particularly Ascaris lumbracoides (large roundworm) (4, 5). It is also a herb that may be of use against bacterial hepatitis, E.Coli and other bacillary dysentery (4).<\/span>\r\n

Skin<\/h3>\r\nHot, inflammatory<\/span> skin conditions<\/span> such as sores and eczema can be effectively treated with Andrographis. It can also be used externally as a wash or in a cream where there are signs of infection.<\/span>\r\n

Other<\/h3>\r\nAndrographis has a antioxidant cell protective properties, countering the damaging effects of free radicals. Several texts also refer to this herb for conjunctive treatment for malaria, snakebite and leptospirosis (6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nNote: These are serious conditions which require conventional medicines such as antibiotics. Herbal medicines for treatment of such serious infections can be used to support in both treatment and recovery but are not advised to be used alone.<\/span><\/em>","research":"Andrographis is becoming more recognised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A herb that is a subject of much interest among the scientific community, particularly in the branch of pharmacology that is concerned with the search for \u2018new drugs\u2019. Therefore much of the available research on Andrographis focuses on isolated compounds extracted from the plant, mainly its diterpenes and flavonoids.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

\"\"<\/strong>Immune system<\/h3>\r\nIn a systematic review of research carried out to evaluate the effects of one of Andrographis\u2019s active compounds, a paper summarises the various experimental and clinical pharmacological activities of andrographolide. This review concludes that the andrographolide compound is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial and parasitic, hepatoprotective, antihyperglycemic, and antihypoglycemic. Evidence from clinical studies also suggests that andrographolide reduces symptoms of HIV, uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections, including sinusitis and the common cold, and rheumatoid arthritis (8, 9).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn another study to investigate the physiological effects of short-term multiple dose administration in healthy Thai subjects for the treatment of the common cold and uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections. A standardized <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> crude powder (4 capsules of 1.4 g of <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i>, 3 times per day, 8 h intervals) was used for 3 consecutive days. The results showed positive modulation of white blood cells and absolute neutrophil count in the blood and a reduction of plasma alkaline phosphatase (11).<\/span>\r\n

COVID 19<\/h3>\r\nThe government of Thailand approved a pilot study for the use of Andrographis in the treatment of early symptoms based on numerous findings for its use in reducing the severity of COVID-19. Initially, the treatment is being made available at five state-owned hospitals in Thailand, on a voluntary basis for people between 18-60 years old with the active virus, to be given to patients within 72 hours of symptom onset (15).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAn in vitro study was carried out on legitimate model human lung epithelial cells, Calu-3, using an optimised high-content imaging platform and the plaque assay for viral output to determine the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of <\/span>Andrographis paniculata<\/span><\/i> extract and its major component, andrographolide.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nSARS-CoV-2 was able to reach the maximal infectivity of 95% in Calu-3 cells. Post infection treatment of <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> and andrographolide in SARS-CoV-2-infected Calu-3 cells significantly inhibited the production of infectious virions. These promising results provided experimental evidence in favour of <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> and andrographolide for further development as a monotherapy or in combination with other effective drugs against SARS-CoV-2 infection (14).<\/span>\r\n

\"Andrographis<\/strong>Respiratory system<\/h3>\r\nA systematic review of two reviews and eight clinical trials concluded that there was qualified evidence that andrographis was useful in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nA later systematic review and meta-analysis again concluded that subject to methodological inconsistencies andrographis appears beneficial and safe for relieving acute respiratory tract infection symptoms and shortening time to symptom resolution (2).<\/span>\r\n

Musculoskeletal system<\/h3>\r\nA randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to assess the efficacy of a standardized dried extract of andrographis called ParActin\u00ae\u00a0 which is standardized to 150mg of andrographolide per 300mg dose. Patients were given 300 and 600 mg daily for pain reduction in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The study concluded that both 300 and 600 mg\/day dosages were found to be effective and safe in reducing pain, joint stiffness and physical function. Whilst also demonstrating significantly improvements in the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire and a fatigue scale, in individuals suffering from mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis (10).<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/h3>\r\nA randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> extract in 224 adults with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. Patients were randomised to <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> extract (HMPL-004) 1,200\u2009mg or 1,800\u2009mg daily or placebo for 8 weeks. This study shoes that patients with mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis treated with <\/span>A. paniculata<\/span><\/i> extract at a dose of 1,800\u2009mg daily were more likely to achieve clinical response than those receiving placebo (12).<\/span>\r\n

Nervous system<\/h3>\r\nIn a study investigating the effect of A. paniculata on relapse rate and fatigue in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients receiving interferon beta. Using 170 mg of A. paniculata dried extract tablet, twenty-five patients were enrolled, and twenty-two patients were ultimately analysed and randomised to the active or placebo group. This study found that A. paniculata significantly reduces fatigue in patients with RRMS receiving interferon beta in comparison to placebo and only interferon beta treatment (13).<\/span>\r\n

Kidneys<\/h3>\r\nIn acute pyelonephritis, the results were reported to be similar to those obtained with nitrofurantoin (antibiotic), but with fewer adverse effects. Intra-arterial or retrograde intravenous injections of Andrographis were reportedly effective in thromboangiitis obliterans, especially of \u201cheat toxic type.\u201d Ten cases of viper bites were reportedly cured in 3-5 days by a compound formula that had A. paniculata as the chief active component (6).<\/span>","did_you_know":"The government of Thailand approved trials using for Andrographis to treat COVID-19 after it was shown to be effective for prison inmates that had mild or asymptomatic cases. <\/span>The government claims that out of 11,800 inmates who took it to treat coronavirus, 99.02% recovered.<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":9022},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Andrographis is a small green, shade loving annual shrub that can be found growing throughout India. It can grow up to 1m in height with shiny leaves that grow up to 8cm in length. Its branches are <\/span>square<\/span>-stemmed, often narrowly winged towards the top. The flowers of are particularly beautiful but incredibly small; they are white or pale pink with brown or purple blotches in loose spreading axillary and terminal panicles. Its seed pods are yellow-brown, smooth and oblong in shape, approximately 2cm long.<\/span>","common_names":"