What is Andrographis?: Benefits, Side Effects, and Where to Buy

Have you heard of andrographis? Also known as creat, kalmegh, green chiretta, and the king of bitters, this potent herb goes by many names. A traditional South Asian treatment for the common cold and other upper respiratory ailments, andrographis has also been used for immune support, gastrointestinal support, and arthritis control. In this article, we’ll cover the uses, benefits, and side effects of andrographis, as well as where to buy the best andrographis supplements. 

What is Andrographis? 

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculatta) is a plant native to the Indian subcontinent, as well as Sri Lanka and other parts of South Asia including China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. A delicate, flowering plant notable for its long branching stems and elegant, purple-throated flowers, andrographis has been used for centuries to treat colds, viruses, infections, and gastrointestinal complaints. 

Scientific analysis has found that andrographis gains most of its health benefits from andrographilide. A diterpene compound found in the stems and leaves of the andrographis plant, andrographilide has been studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and immunostimulating properties.  

In addition to andrographilide, Andrographis paniculatta also contains a number of phytonutrients with powerful, and well-known antioxidant and adaptogenic properties. These include:

• Flavonoids
• Polyphenols
• Lactones
• Xanthones
• Quinic Acid
• Diterpenes

Andrographis Uses & Benefits 

The medicinal uses of andrographis are well-researched, though they largely concern the herb’s immune-boosting properties. However, while andrographis is most famous for its use as a cold remedy, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects are nothing to sneeze at, either.

Boost Immune Function

Alongside echinacea, andrographis is one of the most popular immune-boosting herbs on the market. Andrographis was used as a flu treatment during the 1919 epidemic in India. Taking andrographis by mouth as a capsule, tea, or oral preparation can help reduce the symptoms of upper respiratory infections such as coughing and sore throat. One clinical trial of an andrographis supplement found a 52% reduction in cold symptoms when compared to a placebo. 

Scientists believe that andrographis increases the body’s production of T cells, an important type of immune cell that destroys disease-causing pathogens. While there’s no evidence that andrographis can prevent the common cold, it can give our bodies the extra oomph they need to recover faster. 

Reduce Arthritis Pain & Inflammation

Another amazing property of andrographis? This dainty plant packs a powerful anti-inflammatory punch. Research indicates that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in andrographis lower the number of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body, thus reducing overall inflammation. Andrographis also inhibits certain cellular pathways that are triggered by autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. 

As a result, andrographis has been shown to provide relief for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. In one study, 60 patients with rheumatoid arthritis saw significant reduction in pain and swelling after using andrographis supplements. In another, patients with knee osteoarthritis who used andrographis supplements saw significant improvement in pain, fatigue, mobility, and quality of life. 

Improve Gut Health 

Looking for ways to balance your microbiome, beat leaky gut, and soothe inflammation in the lower GI tract? Whether you’re recovering from antibiotic use, trying to stay regular, or concerned about the effects of gut dysbiosis, andrographis supplements can help! 

Because of its strong antimicrobial properties, andrographis supports a healthy gut microbiome by fighting off unwanted and harmful bacteria and fungi within the GI tract, leaving more resources for probiotic organisms. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and even the dreaded Candida albicans yeast are especially vulnerable to andrographis. Rebalancing the microbiome can help cut down on the inflammation and irritation that cause leaky gut. 

Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in andrographis have been shown to significantly reduce the inflammatory proteins associated with ulcerative colitis. 

Andrographis Side Effects

Andrographis is best taken on a temporary basis. Common side effects of andrographis include the following: 

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Rashes, allergic reaction
• Lymph node pain

Avoid taking andrographis if you are nursing, pregnant, or scheduled to undergo surgery in the next two weeks. Similarly, speak with your doctor before taking andrographis if you are taking any of the following medications: paracetamol, blood thinners, immunosuppressants (including chemotherapy drugs), insulin or other hypoglycemic medications, medications for high blood pressure. 

Where to Buy Andrographis Supplements 

As with any herbal supplement, quality matters. Our favorite andrographis supplement is Standard Process Andrographis Complex. Combining the immune-boosting powers of andrographis, echinacea, and holy basil, Standard Process Andrographis Complex supports the body’s natural immune function, fights inflammation, and promotes healthy liver function. You can buy it here in our shop.