Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)

Other names: Chiretta, Chuan xin lian, Kalmegh, Kirata

More commonly known as the “king of bitter”, andorgraphis paniculata is one of the widely used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It is included in Indian Pharmacopoeia and also in the 64 highly researched herbs done by the Indian Noni Research Foundation (INRF). Traditionally used as a treatment for common colds, upper respiratory problems and inflammation, Andrographis is slowly gaining recognition as hepatoprotective herb. Its major constituent is diterpene lactones known as andrographolides, which causes its bitter taste, has liver protective and bile secreting actions. Liver is responsible for detoxification of chemicals and toxins constantly introduce to our body.

These harmful substances produce yet another undesirable substance commonly known as free radicals that destroys cellular membranes. Andrographolides acts like “anti-oxidant” which has significant protective effect on the liver.

Other medicinal uses of Andrographis: antidiabetic, laxative, antipyretic, expectorant, antihelmintic treatment for: wounds, ulcers, malaria, intermittent fevers, cough, bronchitis, skin diseases