Andrographis paniculata is a herbaceous shrub native to India and Sri Lanka. It has been used for centuries in both China and in Scandinavian countries primarily as a cold remedy. This bitter herb is growing in popularity here in the West, recently for these same immune modulating and tonifying effects. The plant is said to exhibit anti-fungal, anti-typhoid, antibiotic, ant-inflammatory and anti pyretic (lowering fevers) properties. As a bitter, it is also considered a digestive.

Key Health Benefits of Andrographis

Andrographolide is the chief constituent extracted from the plant and used for medicinal purposes. Studies have shown that it can significantly shorten the duration of and be used as a preventative for colds and flus. It is said to exert its effects on the GALT, the gastrointestinal associated lymphoid tissue, the largest pool of immune cells in our body. Andrographis have also been compared to both acetaminophen and echinacea in terms of its fever lowering and decreased recovery time after onset of cold and flu and it has compared, if not outperformed, these well known remedies.

Among its immune effects, it has also been shown to have effective anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anti-allergy. 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

Andrographis can be found in a capsule form, as well as tincture. The typical recommended dosage is 400 mg 3x/day, standardized to 4-6% andrographolide content or 1 tsp 3x/day (1:5) in tincture form.The raw/dried herb can also be made into a tea and sipped prior to meals to stimulate digestion.

Side Effects & Final Considerations

Andrographis is generally a well-tolerated and safe herb. Some research has suggested that is may interfere with fertility and is therefore not recommended if attempting to conceive. It has also been suggested that it may stimulate gallbladder contraction and therefore not recommended for individuals with gallbladder disease. Andrographis is also contraindicated in pregnancy and during breastfeeding.