Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)
Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Digestive
- 6 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
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.
Traditional uses & properties
In laboratory studies it shows antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating activity (MSK), and it has traditionally been given for acute and chronic infections. Its bitter diterpene lactones, particularly andrographolide, are considered its main active ingredients. MSK says preliminary studies suggest it may shorten and ease cold and flu symptoms, alone or with other herbs.
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.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to India, andrographis grows wild on plains and as undergrowth in forested areas. It is extensively cultivated for medicinal purposes in northern India and China, and is also grown as a garden plant. The aerial parts are harvested for therapeutic use.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
- Colitis8 herbs · 2 free
- Liver Support10 herbs · 2 free
- Diabetes11 herbs · 2 free
- Fever11 herbs · 2 free
- Strep Throat10 herbs · 2 free
- Cold and Flu16 herbs · 2 free
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Frequently asked questions
What is Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) as follows: In laboratory studies it shows antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating activity (MSK), and it has traditionally been given for acute and chronic infections. Its bitter diterpene lactones, particularly andrographolide, are considered its main active ingredients. MSK says preliminary studies suggest it may shorten and ease cold and flu symptoms, alone or with other herbs.
What safety cautions apply to Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)?
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.
Related herbs
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