Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Andrographolide, Chuan Xin Lin, Green chiretta, Kalmegh leaf extract, Kan Jang®, King of Bitters, Kold Kare®, Remdex®.
• Combination product examples: Ayurvedic Blood Sugar Formula (Andrographis paniculata herb, sylvestre leaf, Momordicacharantia fruit bark, Pterocarpus marsupium gum, Aegle marmelos leaf, Enicostemma littorale herb, curcuma), Chuan Xin Lian (Healing Herbs of China), Immunoguard© (Eleutherococcus senticosus, Schizandra chinensis, Glycyrrhiza glabra), Immuno Shield100© Bioflavonoid complex (Andrographis paniculata, garlic clove powder, astragalus root extract), Jarrow Tribulus complex© (100mg Andrographis paniculata extract, Withania somnifera root), Kan Jang® (Swedish Herbal Institute, SHA-10 standardized extract), Kold-Kare©, Nature's Sunshine Products (proprietary blend 470mg Andrographis paniculata herb extract, thyme herb), Nature's Way Andrographis, Solaray Andrographis 300mg, Planetary Formulas Andrographis, Plum Flower Brand Andrographis, SHA-10 (Swedish Herbal Institute).

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• The leaves of Andrographis paniculata, an annual herb, have been used widely as part of Indian folk medicine and Ayurveda for centuries. The Chinese and Thai herbal medicine systems have also incorporated this herb, renowned in these traditions mostly for its "bitter" properties as a treatment for digestive problems and for a variety of febrile illnesses. More recently, this herb, in its standardized extract form, has become popular in Scandinavia as a remedy for upper respiratory infections (URI) and influenza.
• The most widely tested product is a standardized extract called Kan Jang® (Swedish Herbal Institute), which is standardized to the andrographide fraction of the plant. This product has been tested as a single herb preparation, containing only andrographis, and as a combination product containing Eleutherococcus senticosus. Possibly the most significant challenge in drawing definite conclusions about andrographis is that the majority of the studies to date have been performed by authors working in collaboration with the leading manufacturer of standardized andrographis preparation. Although the data from this body of literature are encouraging, it would be helpful if more independent studies were available without support or involvement of the manufacturer.
• There is reasonably strong evidence from clinical trials to suggest that andrographis is effective in reducing the severity and the duration of URIs when treatment is started within the first 36-48 hours of symptoms. Based on animal and in vitro studies, it appears that andrographis may have a number of other potential therapeutic uses, including as an anti-inflammatory agent and as a treatment for chemically-induced hepatotoxicity. It has also been studied in human clinical trials for influenza and familial Mediterranean fever; it may be moderately effective in reducing symptoms in both of these conditions, although further research is merited in these areas.
• Aside from three reports of anaphylaxis, no major adverse effects of andrographis used at standard doses have been documented. At higher doses, significant toxicities may occur. Caution is warranted in combination with hypoglycemic agents.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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