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. Historically used primarily for liver support and treating infections - especially malaria - it has earned recognition for its powerful immune-boosting and protective properties. 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
Andrographis demonstrates broad immunostimulant and hepatoprotective actions, making it valuable for both acute and chronic infections. Its bitter diterpene lactones, particularly andrographolide, stimulate macrophage activity and protect the liver from damage caused by toxins or infection. In traditional Chinese medicine, it addresses bacillary dysentery, enteritis, and various bacterial infections, while in Ayurveda it's employed for liver ailments, infections, and intestinal worms. Though it lacks direct antiviral activity, it accelerates recovery from common colds and reduces symptoms. Research shows it rivals silymarin in liver protection and can be as effective as acetaminophen for relieving fever and sore throat. The herb may also possess mild antidiabetic and antihypertensive effects, supporting cardiovascular health and balanced blood sugar levels.
Traditional preparations
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
Standard infusion: ½ cup 3-4 times daily, though the taste is often too bitter for most people. Tincture (dried leaf 1:5, 50% alcohol): 1-4 ml (0.2-0.8 tsp.) 3-4 times daily. Glycerite (dried leaf 1:8): 5-10 ml (1-2 tsp.) 3-4 times daily. Capsules: 500-1,000 mg, 3 times daily.
Safety & precautions
Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as andrographis may have effects on fertility and uterine contractions. High doses can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset. Use caution if taking antiplatelet drugs or anticoagulants like warfarin, as andrographis may have additive antiplatelet effects and could modestly increase warfarin exposure, potentially raising bleeding risk. Monitor blood glucose closely if taking antidiabetic medications, since andrographis may lower blood sugar levels. Similarly, those on antihypertensive drugs should be aware of possible additive blood pressure-lowering effects. Evidence suggests andrographis might induce certain cytochrome P450 enzymes and moderately inhibit P-glycoprotein, though clinical significance remains unclear. Extremely large doses are discouraged and professional supervision is recommended for long-term use.
Drug & food 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.
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: Andrographis demonstrates broad immunostimulant and hepatoprotective actions, making it valuable for both acute and chronic infections. Its bitter diterpene lactones, particularly andrographolide, stimulate macrophage activity and protect the liver from damage caused by toxins or infection. In traditional Chinese medicine, it addresses bacillary dysentery, enteritis, and various bacterial infections, while in Ayurveda it's employed for liver ailments, infections, and intestinal worms. Though it lacks direct antiviral activity, it accelerates recovery from common colds and reduces symptoms. Research shows it rivals silymarin in liver protection and can be as effective as acetaminophen for relieving fever and sore throat. The herb may also possess mild antidiabetic and antihypertensive effects, supporting cardiovascular health and balanced blood sugar levels.
How is Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) prepared?
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person. Standard infusion: ½ cup 3-4 times daily, though the taste is often too bitter for most people. Tincture (dried leaf 1:5, 50% alcohol): 1-4 ml (0.2-0.8 tsp.) 3-4 times daily. Glycerite (dried leaf 1:8): 5-10 ml (1-2 tsp.) 3-4 times daily. Capsules: 500-1,000 mg, 3 times daily.
What safety cautions apply to Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)?
Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as andrographis may have effects on fertility and uterine contractions. High doses can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset. Use caution if taking antiplatelet drugs or anticoagulants like warfarin, as andrographis may have additive antiplatelet effects and could modestly increase warfarin exposure, potentially raising bleeding risk. Monitor blood glucose closely if taking antidiabetic medications, since andrographis may lower blood sugar levels. Similarly, those on antihypertensive drugs should be aware of possible additive blood pressure-lowering effects. Evidence suggests andrographis might induce certain cytochrome P450 enzymes and moderately inhibit P-glycoprotein, though clinical significance remains unclear. Extremely large doses are discouraged and professional supervision is recommended for long-term use.
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