Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) vs Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)

Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

About

Andrographis, commonly known as Green Chiretta or King of Bitters, is an upright annual herb reaching approximately 3 feet in height. Native to India and cultivated throughout northern regions of India and China, this bitter medicinal plant has been valued in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. MSK notes that it has been studied mostly for colds, flu and upper respiratory infections. The plant thrives on plains and in forest undergrowth, where its spotted pale brown or purple flowers and long seed capsules distinguish it from other medicinal herbs.

Pau d'arco is an evergreen tree that can reach 100 feet in height, producing pink flowers. The bark of this South American tree is used as a tea in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments; MSK says its antibacterial and anticancer effects in laboratory studies have not been shown in humans. The tree grows in both mountainous terrains high in the Andes and in low-lying areas of Paraguay and Brazil. The prized inner bark is collected from wild-growing trees throughout the year.

Safety & precautions

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid, because andrographis may affect fertility and uterine contractions. High doses can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset. Medicines: MSK notes laboratory signs of reduced platelet clumping (although a rat study found no interaction with warfarin), possible added blood-pressure lowering, possible interference with some chemotherapy drugs, and a possible rise in side effects from aminophylline. Whether andrographis meaningfully blocks drug-processing enzymes is uncertain: MSK cites laboratory inhibition of CYP1A2, CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, while a 2015 review judged the data too limited to call it an inhibitor. Professional supervision is recommended for long-term use.

If taking anticoagulant medication, use only under professional supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Avoid if trying to conceive. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, intestinal discomfort, and anticoagulant effects. Blood clotting disorders are a contraindication.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.