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Andrographis

Also known as: Andrographis paniculata, Andrographis, Chuanxinlian, King of Bitters

Overview

Andrographis paniculata, also known as Chuanxinlian or King of Bitters, is a herbaceous plant native to India and Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its bitter taste and is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for its purported health benefits. The main active constituent is andrographolide, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. It is commonly used to treat upper respiratory tract infections, noninfective diarrhea, and autoimmune diseases. Research on Andrographis paniculata is moderately mature, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses assessing its safety and efficacy. The evidence is generally of good quality, with multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses conducted using rigorous methodologies.

Benefits

Andrographis paniculata is primarily known for its effectiveness in treating upper respiratory tract infections. Studies suggest it can reduce the duration of illness by approximately 2.1 days compared to placebo. It may also alleviate symptoms of noninfective diarrhea and autoimmune diseases, although more research is needed to confirm these benefits. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of andrographolide, its main active constituent, contribute to its therapeutic effects. Benefits are generally observed across various populations, with the reduction in illness duration being clinically significant for upper respiratory infections. Benefits typically manifest within a few days to a week after starting treatment.

How it works

Andrographolide, the main active constituent, interacts with various biological pathways, including anti-inflammatory pathways (e.g., NF-κB inhibition), antioxidant pathways, and immunomodulatory pathways. It affects the immune system, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Andrographolide targets various molecular pathways, including the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the activation of antioxidant enzymes. The bioavailability of andrographolide is moderate, with studies indicating that it is absorbed and metabolized in the body, though specific bioavailability data is limited.

Side effects

Andrographis paniculata is generally considered safe when used as directed. The incidence of serious adverse events is very rare. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., nausea, diarrhea) and skin and subcutaneous disorders. Uncommon side effects may include allergic reactions and other mild adverse events. Rare side effects can include severe allergic reactions. Caution is advised when using Andrographis paniculata with other medications, especially immunosuppressants and blood thinners. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient data. Caution is also advised for individuals with autoimmune diseases due to its immunomodulatory effects. The safety profile in children and the elderly is less well-studied, and caution is advised.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose varies, typically ranging from 400 mg to 1200 mg per day of andrographolide extract. For upper respiratory tract infections, doses of 1200 mg per day have been used effectively. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 1200 mg per day are less commonly studied. It is typically taken orally, 2-3 times a day, with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Capsules or tablets containing standardized andrographolide extract are commonly used. Absorption may be enhanced when taken with food. There are no specific cofactors required for its efficacy.

FAQs

Is Andrographis safe to use?

Andrographis is generally safe but can cause gastrointestinal and skin side effects. Serious adverse events are rare. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

When and how should I take Andrographis?

Take Andrographis with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or as directed by your healthcare provider.

How long does it take to see results from Andrographis?

You may start to see benefits within a few days to a week of starting Andrographis, depending on the condition being treated. Consistent use is important for optimal results.

Is Andrographis a cure for all illnesses?

Andrographis is not a cure-all and should be used under medical supervision, especially for chronic conditions. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.773282/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies on Andrographis paniculata found that the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was 4.04% for andrographolide derivative injections, with common adverse events including gastrointestinal and skin disorders. Serious adverse events were very rare, suggesting a relatively safe profile for Andrographis paniculata when used appropriately.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33372366/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the safety of Andrographis paniculata based on 10 RCTs and 3 intensive monitoring studies. The pooled incidence of serious adverse events was very rare (0.02 per 1000 patients), while non-serious adverse events were common (102.6 per 1000 patients). Gastrointestinal and skin disorders were the most common adverse events, indicating that while serious risks are minimal, milder side effects are relatively frequent.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK71143/ – This systematic review examined the use of Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. It found that Andrographis paniculata may reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections by approximately 2.1 days compared to placebo. The evidence for safety and efficacy is generally positive but requires further high-quality studies to confirm these findings.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jicm.2023.29122.abstracts – This abstract highlights the potential of Andrographis paniculata in integrative cancer care, noting its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. It suggests that Andrographis paniculata may be a valuable adjunct therapy in managing cancer-related symptoms and improving patient outcomes, warranting further investigation into its specific applications and mechanisms of action in oncology.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pds.5190 – This review provides a comprehensive overview of Andrographis paniculata, covering its traditional uses, chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and clinical applications. It highlights the potential of Andrographis paniculata in treating various conditions, including infections, inflammation, and cancer, while also emphasizing the need for further research to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and optimize its therapeutic use.