Andrographis is a traditional herbal remedy commonly used to support immune health and help reduce cold and flu symptoms.
Andrographis: An Herb For Immune Health
Updated Jul. 20th, 2026 | Read Time: 2 Minutes | What You Will Learn:
- Key Health Benefits of Andrographis
- Andrographis Supplement Varieties
- Side Effects & Final Considerations
- Nutritional Information
- Reader Comments (4)
Andrographis paniculata is a herbaceous shrub native to India and Sri Lanka. People have used it for centuries in China and Scandinavia as a traditional cold remedy. This bitter herb is growing in popularity here in the West, recently for these same immune modulating and tonifying effects. This herb may provide antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing properties. Its bitter compounds may also support healthy digestion.
What Are The Health Benefits of Andrographis?
Andrographolide is the primary medicinal compound found in this herb. Research suggests andrographis may shorten the duration of colds and flu. Studies also suggest it may help prevent respiratory infections. Andrographis may support immune function through the gastrointestinal-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). Research has compared this herb with acetaminophen and echinacea for fever relief and recovery. Some studies suggest andrographis performs as well as or better than these remedies.
Research suggest this herb provides anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy benefits alongside its immune-supporting effects. In this sense, it is immune modulating, preventing a chronic, hyperactive and unhealthy activation of either humoral or cell mediated immunity. This balancing property may have significant implications in the treatment of IBD, arthritis and asthma, among others.
Andrographis Supplement Varieties
Manufacturers offer this herb in capsules and liquid tinctures. A common dosage is 400 milligrams, three times daily. Standardized extracts typically contain 4% to 6% andrographolide. A common tincture dose is one teaspoon, three times daily, using a 1:5 extract. People can also prepare dried andrographis as a tea before meals to support digestion.
Side Effects & Final Considerations
This herb is generally a well-tolerated and safe herb. Some research suggests andrographis may affect fertility. Avoid andrographis if you are trying to conceive. This herb may also stimulate gallbladder contractions. People with gallbladder disease should avoid andrographis. Do not use this herb during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
The best natural antihistamine!!! Great for seasonal, pet and dust allergies. No side effects, take as often as necessary. Also boosts immune system, protects liver. Great for colds and flus. I can't be without it!!!
Hello Marie,
Thank you for sharing. That's excellent to hear this supplement has helped and provided much relief during pesky allergy season. Allergies can be very uncomfortable and it's nice to find a natural alternative since it's something you take often to decongest yourself. Here's another article on allergy relief you may enjoy:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/allergies-environmental/
Have a healthy day!
It's getting into cold season and with cold season I always like to try some new natural remedies to keep myself safe from the bugs of the season. I think that andrographis might be good for me to explore since, as you mention, it exhibits anti-fungal, anti-typhoid, antibiotic, pro-digestive health, ant-inflammatory and, worst comes to worst (eg if I really do end up needing it), anti pyretic (lowering fevers) properties. And, best for my purposes, it is a generally a well-tolerated and safe herb so I can feel free to explore trying it, of course, using sense and moderation!
Hello Rachel,
We’re glad you enjoyed this article and that you're looking forward to trying this herb.
Since you liked this read, we think you’ll love this one too: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/cold-and-flu/
Stay healthy & well!