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Andrographis paniculata 101

Andrographis paniculata (King of Bitters) Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about Andrographis paniculata herbal extract? Check out these resources from our site or scroll down to find answers to common questions. If you have more questions, reach out!

Do you sell Andrographis paniculata?

Yes! You can order Andrographis as an all-natural herbal supplement from our online store.

What are other names for Andrographis?

Andrographis is commonly known as Andrographis paniculata or green chiretta. Other common names used to describe the herb include Chuan Xin Lian, Kalmegh, and Indian echinacea, and the King of Bitters. We call it the Green Defender.

What is Andrographis known for?

Andrographis paniculata is a medicinal herb in the Acanthaceae family. It is known for its bitter taste. It is a significant plant in the ethnomedical traditions of its native range. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is thought to dry dampness and clear heat from the lungs and smaller digestive organs. In Ayurveda, it is used to support detoxification pathways, support digestion, and modulate the body’s immune response. It is considered anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, and supportive of the liver and gall bladder.

Does Andrographis provide Lyme disease support?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. A national surveillance report from the Center for Disease Control reveals that more than 476 000 Americans are infected with this disease each year.

Some of the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease include inflammation, joint pain (arthritis), muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. The standard therapy recommends the use of antibiotics in treating Lyme disease. However, these antibiotics do not address the issues of inflammation, joint pain, and tissue damage caused by the spirochete.

Andrographis paniculata benefits include possible support for treatment of Lyme disease. It may prove effective in assisting the immune system in the very early, blood-borne stage of Lyme disease, called the planktonic stage. Andrographis may also support the health of joints and soft connective tissue that are challenged during chronic Lyme infection. The herb can help reduce inflammation at the joints and lymph nodes, issues often associated with Lyme disease.

Andrographis benefits are often attributed to its active ingredient, andrographolides, which contains anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Andrographolides have anti-borreliae properties that interfere with the bacteria’s mechanisms. The active ingredient also may support immune function, enhance liver function, and strengthen heart muscles, which may help the immune system in clearing the bacterial infection.

What is the Buhner Protocol?

Stephen Buhner’s book Healing Lyme advocates for the use of Andrographis paniculata in treating the disease. A pioneer in the use of botanical medicines for Lyme disease, he developed a botanical protocol that focuses on several important herbs, including Andrographis.

Can Andrographis paniculata help reduce Herxheimer reactions?

The herb may help to reduce Herxheimer reactions. The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction can happen after antibiotic treatment has started for spirochetal infections like Lyme disease and tick-borne diseases.

In his book How Can I Get Better? Dr. Richard Horowitz describes the Jarisch-Herxheimer (JH) flare up as a “temporary worsening of the symptoms of Lyme disease that occurs when the Lyme spirochete is being killed off by antibiotics, creating inflammation … These JH reactions produce cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-8), which then create inflammatory symptoms, including increased fever, muscle and joint pain, headaches, cognitive impairment, and a general worsening of the underlying symptomology.”

Is Andrographis paniculata an adaptogen?

A literature review of Andrographis paniculata scientific studies suggests that andrographis is pharmacologically polyvalent, possessing adaptogenic properties.

Does Andrographis provide cold and flu support? Does it provide antiviral support?

According to a 2021 study in the scientific journal Life, Andrographis may prove effective for acute respiratory tract infections like the common cold and sinusitis.

Andrographis can be used alone or combined with Eleutherococcus senticosus to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. The herb contains antiviral properties against viruses such as influenza and HIV. It also increases the number of lymphocytes and may provide immune system support for HIV patients.

A 2021 study published in The Journal of Natural Products provides experimental evidence in favor of Andrographis paniculata and its major bioactive component, andrographolide, for further investigation as a possible monotherapy or in combination with other effective drugs against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

What is Klebsiella pneumoniae, and can Andrographis help?

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a nosocomial infection people can get while in the hospital. It’s sometimes called a hospital-acquired infection or a health-care associated infection.‌ Essentially, hospital patients and healthcare professionals can sometimes bring germs inside hospitals and pass them to others.

A 2020 study published in The Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine highlights the promise of Andrographis paniculata in controlling the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Can Andrographis paniculata be used to support cancer treatment?

The herb contains anti-mutagenic properties that have the potential as an adjuvant to reduce the symptoms and severity of cancer treatment. It also contains bioactive ingredients with antioxidant properties that may help to reduce oxidative stress caused by cancer drugs. A study conducted by City of Hope, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, suggests that Andrographis may help to eradicate colorectal cancer cells that are resistant to chemotherapy.

What are its cardiovascular properties?

Andrographis paniculata extract may support heart and vascular health. Preclinical research suggests that one of the phytoactives (andrographolide) can support normal blood pressure and flow of blood in veins, arteries, and capillaries. Andrographis may also support healthy liver function and cholesterol balance. These benefits and the support of healthy metabolic function make the King of Bitters a promising support to the cardivascular system.

What are its colon support properties?

Andrographis paniculata supports colon health, which could be beneficial in the support of treatment for ulcerative colitis, an intestinal inflammatory disease that could result in permanent damage to the colon if not managed early. The anti-inflammatory properties of andrographolides suggests a potential adjuvant against ulcerative colitis.

What are its anti-inflammatory activities?

The herb may reduce inflammation at the joints and lymph nodes, which are issues often associated with Lyme disease.

In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties are used to support treatment of symptoms of arthritis as well as joint pain and muscle spasms from extended exercise. Andrographis may help to protect the body from endotoxin damage.

What are the traditional uses of Andrographis paniculata?

It is traditionally used as a digestive tonic, aiding in the resolution of stomach complaints for children and adults. Other traditional uses include support for treatment of hypertension, low energy, blood sugar balance, rheumatoid arthritis, and bacterial infections.

Does Andrographis taste bitter?

Andrographis is a full-bodied, bitter/bittersweet herb. It’s commonly called the “King of Bitters.” Many herbalists say that bitter is better, especially when it comes to supporting the treatment of a wide range of health conditions. Bitter foods have been shown to aid digestion, help nutrient absorption, and stimulate immune function. The right all-natural herbs can help to strengthen the immune system, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance digestion.

How do I consume Andrographis extract?

Add 1/4 teaspoon of concentrate to 8 ounces of water or a cup of juice. Stir until dissolved. Drink 1-2 glasses a day.

How did you choose your Andrographis paniculata supplier?

For each of the products we sell, company owner Michael Van der Linden and members of our team do substantial research, visit the source, and meet with the collectors and processors personally. We back up our faith in our source and our processors with testing.

Does Andrographis contain caffeine?

No.

What if I have more questions about Andrographis?

Contact us!

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