Acanthaceae
Andrographis
Andrographis paniculata
✓ Generally Safe
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia
Also known as: King of Bitters, Chuan Xin Lian, Green Chiretta, Indian Echinacea
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Parts Used
LeafStem
Therapeutic Uses
Upper respiratory infections (multiple RCTs — reduces severity and duration of colds), influenza, sinusitis, pharyngitis, hepatitis, fever, IBS. Known as 'Indian Echinacea' — comparable clinical evidence for respiratory infections.
Herbal Actions
Immunostimulant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, bitter tonic
Active Constituents
Diterpene lactones (andrographolide — primary active, neoandrographolide, 14-deoxyandrographolide), flavonoids, polyphenols
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 10 min — extremely bitter |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 60% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Standardized extract (10% andrographolide): 400mg 3x daily for acute infections. Taste is intensely bitter — capsules preferred. Kan Jang (standardized combination): clinically validated for colds. Use at onset of illness. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Contraindicated in pregnancy (abortifacient). Avoid with immunosuppressants. Caution with antihypertensives and anticoagulants.
Side Effects: GI upset, nausea, vomiting at high doses. Allergic reactions. Rare: elevated liver enzymes.