Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a plant native to South and Southeast Asia, widely used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine. Its leaves and stems contain powerful bioactive compounds — most notably andrographolide — that have attracted significant scientific interest. Known as the "King of Bitters" for its intensely bitter taste, andrographis is today one of the most studied herbal supplements for immune support, respiratory health, and anti-inflammatory action.
What Is Andrographis paniculata?
Andrographis paniculata is an annual herbaceous plant from the Acanthaceae family. It grows naturally across tropical Asia — India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and neighbouring countries — reaching between 30 and 110 cm in height. The plant is easily recognised by its dark green stems, lance-shaped leaves, and small pale violet flowers. Its fruits are small berry-like structures, but it is the leaves and underground stems that are harvested and used in herbal preparations. The distinctive bitterness that gives andrographis its nickname comes from its high concentration of andrographolide, a diterpenoid lactone that is responsible for most of its biological effects.
Key Properties and Active Compounds
Andrographolide — the primary active compound in andrographis — has been shown in research to exert antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal activity. It also stimulates the transcription factor Nrf2, which regulates the expression of antioxidant genes and helps the body neutralise free radicals. Beyond andrographolide, the plant contains neoandrographolide and 14-deoxyandrographolide, each contributing to its broad spectrum of biological activity.
Andrographis may also support liver and cardiovascular health. It has traditionally been used as a choleretic (stimulating bile production) and has demonstrated anticoagulant properties in laboratory studies. The immune-modulating effects of andrographis are particularly well documented: the plant stimulates production of antibodies and activates macrophages — the white blood cells responsible for identifying and eliminating pathogens. Explore our immune system supplements for a broader selection of evidence-backed options.
[tip:The bitterness of andrographis is not just a sensory nuisance — bitter compounds actively stimulate digestive enzyme production and bile flow, which is why the plant has long been used for digestive complaints as well as infections.]What Is Andrographis Used For?
The most established use of andrographis is for upper respiratory tract infections: sore throat, cough, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Several clinical trials have found that andrographis extract can reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms when taken early, and may also reduce the likelihood of falling ill in the first place. For this reason it is particularly popular as a winter supplement and is often combined with other immune herbs such as echinacea or elderberry. Browse our respiratory health collection for complementary products.
Beyond respiratory health, andrographis is used in the following areas:
- Digestive health — may relieve diarrhoea, bloating, loss of appetite, and intestinal cramps
- Liver support — traditionally used for jaundice, drug-induced liver damage, and hepatic enlargement
- Anti-inflammatory support — research suggests benefit in joint inflammation and inflammatory conditions generally
- Skin health — topical and internal use linked to reduced itching, wound healing, and protection against UV-induced skin ageing
- Metabolic support — some studies suggest andrographolide may help regulate blood sugar levels
Andrographis and Lyme Disease
One of the more specialised applications of andrographis is as a supportive herb in Lyme disease protocols. The plant's andrographolide has demonstrated activity against Borrelia burgdorferi — the spirochete responsible for Lyme disease — in laboratory settings. Importantly, andrographolide is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulates in the spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid, which makes it relevant for the neurological aspects of Lyme disease that are difficult to reach with conventional antibiotics. The herb is also believed to modulate the autoimmune responses triggered by Borrelia infection. It is frequently included in herbal Lyme protocols developed by integrative medicine practitioners. However, this should always be discussed with a physician and is not a substitute for conventional antibiotic treatment. Check our herbs collection for other botanicals used in similar protocols.
[warning:Andrographis should not be used during pregnancy, as it may increase the risk of miscarriage. It is also not recommended for women trying to conceive, as it may suppress progesterone production. Avoid combining with anticoagulant medications or immunosuppressants without medical supervision.]Andrographis Supplements at Medpak
Andrographis is available in a range of formats — standardised dry extracts, full-spectrum capsules, and liquid tinctures — each with different andrographolide concentrations. Standardised extracts (typically 10–98% andrographolide) provide a more consistent and measurable dose, while full-spectrum products preserve the full range of the plant's compounds. The usual supplemental dose ranges from 300 to 500 mg per day of the extract, taken with meals to reduce the likelihood of digestive discomfort.
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Andrographis is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Reported side effects are uncommon but may include headache, fatigue, mild gastrointestinal upset, or allergic skin reactions. High doses taken over extended periods may temporarily elevate liver enzymes, though these return to normal after discontinuation. As with any herbal supplement, andrographis can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you experience persistent side effects, stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
[note:All andrographis supplements listed above ship from within the EU, ensuring fast delivery and no customs fees for European customers. Orders typically arrive within 2–5 business days.]
