Andrographis paniculata

Andrographis

Acanthaceae

Evidence: ModerateCaffeine Free IndiaCold SeasonImmune TraditionsSeasonal Wellness

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Identity

Common Name: Andrographis
Scientific Name: Andrographis paniculata
Botanical Family: Acanthaceae
Native Region: India and Sri Lanka
Cultivation Regions: India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, China
Plant Parts Used: Aerial parts, Leaves
Synonyms: Kalmegh, King of Bitters, Chuan Xin Lian
Caffeine Level: Caffeine Free

An erect slender annual 30-100 cm tall with opposite lance-shaped leaves, small tubular pink-white flowers in loose clusters, and narrow elongated seed pods; all parts are intensely bitter.

Historical Background

Known as the 'king of bitters' (kalmegh, chuan xin lian), andrographis has been a pillar of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Chinese herbal traditions for upper-respiratory and seasonal use. Its intense bitterness became a marker of its traditional reputation for clearing heat.

Earliest recorded uses: Used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine for centuries; called the 'king of bitters.'

Traditional preparations:

Aerial-part infusion
Bitter seasonal tea with ginger & honey
Short-term immune blend

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Ayurveda

Bitter cooling herb for colds, fever, and 'heat-clearing.'

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Clears Heat, detoxifies; seasonal respiratory herb.

Modern Herbalism

Short-term seasonal immune and respiratory tea.

Flavor & Aroma

Strongly BitterGreenEarthyHerbaceous

Aroma: Strongly bitter, green, earthy, herbaceous

Tea Information

Suitable for Tea

Yes

Preparation Methods

Infusion, Decoction

Steeping Temperature

200°F (93°C)

Steeping Time

5-10 minutes (covered)

Recommended Vessel

Covered teapot

Blends Well With

Ginger, Honey, Green Tea, Holy Basil, Lemongrass

200°F (93°C) 5-10 minutes (covered)

Safety & Cautions

Contraindications

Avoid in autoimmune disease, bleeding disorders, and infertility (male); discontinue before surgery; caution with immunosuppressants and anticoagulants.

Drug Interactions

May enhance immune responses and bleeding with anticoagulants; may lower blood pressure and blood sugar; consult a clinician.

Pregnancy

Avoid medicinal doses.

Children

Mild infusions acceptable for short-term seasonal use in small amounts; avoid long-term use.

Allergies

Possible in those sensitive to Acanthaceae; rare.

Known Adverse Effects

Extremely bitter; may cause nausea, GI upset, or headache; may enhance immune responses.

Research Summary

Evidence Level: Moderate

Andrographis has moderate evidence from trials, mostly from Asia and Europe, for shortening symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections; evidence quality is variable. It is not a treatment for infection, and should not replace professional care; use short-term only.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources

NCCIH · Andrographis (2023)
PubMed · Andrographis for upper respiratory tract infections (review) (2017)

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