What It Is

Andrographis Paniculata is a herbaceous plant native to South Asia, widely used in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Known for its bitter taste, it is commonly referred to as the "King of Bitters." The plant's leaves and roots are used to make medicine.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Andrographis Paniculata is available in various forms, including:

• Capsules: Typically containing 400 mg to 500 mg of Andrographis extract
• Tablets: Commonly available in 100 mg to 300 mg strengths
• Liquid Extracts: Concentrations vary, usually around 1:1 (1 ml equals 1 gram of the herb)
• Powders: Used in teas or supplements

Brand and Generic Names

• Generic Name: Andrographis Paniculata
• Brand Names: KalmCold, Kan Jang, Paractin (among others)

Indications for Use

Andrographis Paniculata is used for various health conditions, including:

• Common cold and flu
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Liver disorders
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Mechanism of Action

The primary active component in Andrographis Paniculata is andrographolide, which exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. Andrographolide works by inhibiting the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a protein complex that controls the transcription of DNA, cytokine production, and cell survival. This inhibition reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and helps in modulating the immune response.

Administration and Dosage

The dosage of Andrographis Paniculata varies depending on the form and the condition being treated. Common dosages include:

• For common cold: 200 mg to 600 mg of standardized extract daily for 5-10 days
• For inflammatory conditions: 300 mg to 600 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses

It is generally recommended to take Andrographis with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Side Effects and Precautions

Andrographis Paniculata is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects in some individuals, including:

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain)
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching)
• Fatigue
• Headache

Precautions include:

• Avoiding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Monitoring for allergic reactions
• Consulting a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with autoimmune diseases or those taking immunosuppressants

Conclusion

Andrographis Paniculata is a valuable herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It offers potential benefits for managing infections, inflammation, and immune-related conditions. While generally safe, it is important to use it under proper guidance to avoid potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Continued research is essential to fully validate its therapeutic claims and to explore its potential in modern medicine.