Andrographis Benefits | Immune, Respiratory & Liver Support
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) known for its very bitter taste and detoxifying effects, also referred to as "King of Bitters" and “Bile of the Earth”
Andrographis Pharmacology
Botanical Name
Andrographis paniculata & Justicia paniculata
Other Common Names
Indian Echinacea, Green Chireta, Andrographolide & Kalmegh
Part Used
Leaves
Main Therapeutic Compounds
Bitter diterpene, lactones, diterpene glucosides & flavonoids
Herbal Actions
Bitter tonic
Choleretic (increases liver bile production)
Immune-stimulating
Andrographis Herbal Benefits
Liver Health || Immune Support || Cold & Flu
Cough Relief || Digestion
Immune Support
Andrographis is traditionally used for its immune-boosting properties and is commonly used to help manage the common cold, flu, sore throat, and upper respiratory infections. The active compound in Andrographis that is thought to be responsible for its immune-supportive effects is called andrographolide. This compound has been shown to enhance the activity of immune cells called macrophages, which help to remove cellular debris and promote tissue repair.
Respiratory Health
Andrographis is a plant that is commonly used to support respiratory health. A study published in 2004 found that andrographis extract may be effective in managing acute respiratory infections and was more effective than a placebo in reducing cold symptoms like nasal congestion, earache, and sore throat. Andrographis is one of the most widely used herbal medicines for respiratory health and is often used as a natural remedy for these types of conditions.
Liver Health
Andrographis paniculata has been shown to promote healthy liver and gallbladder function. It does this by increasing bile flow, supporting the production of a compound called glutathione, and reducing liver damage. Several studies have found that andrographolides, a compound found in andrographis paniculata, may be as effective as St. Mary's Thistle (Silybum marianum) in protecting the liver.
Andrographis Typical Use
Tea & Infusion
5-6 grams steeped in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Tincture & Liquid Extract
Typical use of Andrographis tincture is 2.5mls mixed in a small amount of water or juice 1-2 times daily, or as directed by your practitioner.
Herbal Combinations
Combines well with Echinacea, White Horehound, Eyebright, Mullein & Thyme.
Cautions & Safety
Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
If you have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical medications, please consult your primary healthcare practitioner prior to use.
References
J.T. Coon, E. Ernst: Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Planta Medica. 70(4), 2004, 293–298, April.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15095142/
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
Caceres DD, Hancke JL, Burgos RA, et al. Use of visual analogue scale measurements (VAS) to assess the effectiveness of standardized Andrographis paniculata extract SHA-10 in reducing the symptoms of common cold. A randomized, double-blind, placebo study. Phytomedicine 1999;6:217-23.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10589439/
Madav S, Tripathi HC, Tandan SK, et al. Antiallergic activity of andrographolide. Indian J Pharm Sci 1998;60:176-8.
https://www.ijpsonline.com/abstract/antiallergic-activity-of-andrographolide-1524.html
Puri A, Saxena R, Saxena RP, et al. Immunostimulant agents from Andrographis paniculata. J Nat Prod 1993;56:995-9.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8377022/
Caceres DD, Hancke JL, Burgos RA, Wikman GK. Prevention of common colds with Andrographis Paniculata dried extract: a pilot, double-blind trial. Phytomedicine 1997;4:101-4.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23195395/
Thamlikitkul, V, et al.: Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata nees for pharyngotonsillitis in adults. J Med Assoc Thai. 74(10), 1991, 437–442.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1797953/
Suebsasana, S, et al.: Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and toxic effects of andrographolide derivatives in experimental animals. Archives of Pharmacal Research. 32(9), 2009, 1191–1200.Tang, T, et al.: Randomised clinical trial: herbal extract HMPL-004 in active ulcerative colitis – a double-blind comparison with sustained release mesalazine. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 33(2), 2011, 194–202.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19784573/
Spasov, AA, et al.: Comparative controlled study of Andrographis paniculata fixed combination, Kan Jang and an Echinacea preparation as adjuvant, in the treatment of uncomplicated respiratory disease in children. Phytother Res. 18(1), 2004, 47–53.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14750201/
Sheeja, K, et al.: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the plant Andrographis paniculata Nees. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 28(1), 2006, 129–140.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16684672/
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