Andrographis Nature’s Potent Immune Defender

For centuries, healers across Asia have revered one herb for its ability to combat infections, reduce inflammation, and fortify the body against disease—Andrographis. Known as the "King of Bitters" for its intensely bitter taste, this potent medicinal plant has been a pillar of Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Thai healing traditions.

From ancient traditions to modern science, Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) has proven to be a potent immune booster, liver protector, and anti-inflammatory powerhouse. It has been traditionally used to fight fevers, viral infections, digestive disturbances, and liver disorders, and today, it is gaining recognition for its role in tackling chronic infections, stealth pathogens, and immune imbalances.

As more people seek natural ways to strengthen immunity, combat chronic inflammation, and promote longevity, Andrographis stands out as one of nature’s most powerful herbal allies.

Andrographis in Traditional Medicine

The Bitter Warrior Against Heat and Stagnation

In Ayurveda, traditional Indian healing, Andrographis is called Kalmegh, meaning “dark cloud”, symbolizing its deep-cleansing nature. It is classified as a Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) herb with cooling and drying properties, making it especially effective in balancing two key doshas:

• Excess Pitta (heat, fire, and inflammation): When Pitta is too high, the body experiences fevers, infections, liver inflammation, skin eruptions, and excessive acidity. Andrographis cools excess heat, calms inflammatory responses, and supports liver detoxification, making it a key herb for restoring balance in Pitta-aggravated conditions such as fevers, skin irritations, and liver congestion.
• Excess Kapha (mucus, stagnation, sluggish digestion): Kapha imbalances lead to congestion, slow digestion, water retention, and excessive mucus in the respiratory and digestive systems. Andrographis clears excess moisture, reduces phlegm, stimulates bile production, and improves metabolic fire (Agni), making it effective for chronic respiratory infections, sluggish digestion, and liver stagnation.

Traditional Uses of Andrographis in Ayurveda:

• Fevers and Infections: Known as a natural febrifuge, it helps reduce fevers and clear toxins associated with viral and bacterial infections.
• Liver Support & Detoxification: Often used for conditions like jaundice, hepatitis, and sluggish liver function, Andrographis stimulates bile flow and protects liver cells.
• Digestive Cleansing: – The bitter compounds in Andrographis stimulate appetite, enhance digestive secretions, and support healthy digestion and elimination, making it useful for constipation and overall digestive function. Traditionally, it was also used for dysentery and parasitic infections due to its potent antimicrobial properties.
• Snake and Insect Bites: Applied topically or taken internally, Andrographis has been used in Ayurveda as an antidote to venom and toxic bites.

Andrographis in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Andrographis is known as Chuan Xin Lian, which translates to “thread-the-heart lotus.” This poetic name reflects its ability to penetrate deeply into the body's systems to purge toxins, cool excessive heat, and restore balance.

It is classified as a cold and bitter herb and is commonly used in TCM formulas to treat respiratory infections, digestive imbalances, liver disorders, and inflammatory conditions.

Traditional Uses of Andrographis in TCM

• Respiratory Infections & Coughs: Andrographis is a primary herb for treating bronchitis, pneumonia, and sore throats, particularly when symptoms involve fever, yellow mucus, or a burning sensation in the chest.
• Damp-Heat Conditions: Used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), dysentery, and hepatitis, which are linked to excess moisture and heat trapped in the body. Andrographis helps by cooling inflammation, increasing urination to flush out toxins, and reducing microbial overgrowth in the intestines and urinary tract.
• Liver & Gallbladder Support: In TCM, the liver is considered the master detoxifier and the organ most affected by heat and toxicity. Andrographis supports the liver by stimulating bile flow, reducing inflammation, and helping to break down stagnation that contributes to gallbladder congestion and fatty liver disease.
• Snake Bites & Toxic Heat: – Historically, Andrographis has been used as an anti-venom for snakebites, insect stings, and toxic wounds due to its ability to neutralize toxins and prevent systemic inflammation. It has also been applied topically in TCM as a poultice for abscesses, boils, and infected wounds.

Andrographis is regarded as a powerful "fire-extinguisher" in TCM, not just for fevers and infections, but also for internal inflammatory conditions that contribute to chronic illness.

Andrographis in Thailand a National Remedy for Fevers and Viral Infections

In Thailand, Andrographis is called Fah Talai Jone, which translates to “the herb that conquers disease.” This name reflects its long-standing reputation as one of the most potent herbal remedies for infections, fevers, and inflammatory diseases.

• Fevers & Infections: Fah Talai Jone has been widely used for centuries in Thai traditional medicine to treat high fevers, colds, flu, and respiratory infections. Thai healers often prescribe it as a first-line defense against viral infections, particularly when symptoms include fever, sore throat, and excessive mucus production.
• Dengue Fever & Emerging Viral Epidemics: In Thailand and other tropical regions, Andrographis has been traditionally used for dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes high fever, severe body aches, and internal bleeding.
• Government Endorsement During Pandemics: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government officially recommended Andrographis as part of an herbal treatment protocol for mild-to-moderate cases. Clinical studies found that Andrographis reduced symptom severity and shortened recovery time in COVID-19 patients when taken within the first 72 hours of illness. [1]

Andrographis has been included in national herbal protocols in multiple Southeast Asian countries for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, making it a key herb in epidemic response strategies for viral and bacterial infections. Because of its broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, Andrographis remains one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in Thailand today, available in pharmacies and even prescribed by medical doctors alongside conventional treatments.

Andrographis in Southeast Asia

Beyond Thailand, Andrographis has been an essential part of Indonesian, Malaysian, and Vietnamese herbal medicine for centuries.

In Indonesia, it is known as Sambiloto and is used for

• Malaria & Parasitic Infections: Andrographis has been traditionally used to treat malarial fevers and tropical parasitic infections due to its strong anti-parasitic properties.
• Hepatitis & Liver Disorders: It has been used to protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and viral infections like hepatitis B and C.

In Vietnam, Andrographis is a core ingredient in traditional herbal decoctions for treating dysentery, food poisoning, and gastrointestinal infections.

In Malaysia, it is commonly used to support blood sugar regulation and treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and boils.

Andrographis The New Kid On The Block in Western Herbalism

While Andrographis has been a cornerstone of Asian herbal medicine for centuries, it has only recently gained recognition in Western herbalism and functional medicine—particularly for its ability to combat chronic infections, stealth pathogens, and autoimmune-related inflammation.

• Immune System Modulation & Chronic Infections: Immune System Modulation & Infection Support: Andrographis is widely used for both acute and chronic infections due to its broad-spectrum antiviral, antibacterial, and immune-modulating properties. It is commonly used for colds, flu, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and skin abscesses, helping to reduce symptom severity and support faster recovery. Its ability to stimulate immune defenses while also calming excessive inflammation makes it a valuable herb for balancing immune function in both short-term and long-term infections.
• A Key Herb in Lyme Disease & Stealth Pathogen Protocols: Stealth pathogens like Borrelia (Lyme disease), Bartonella, and Mycoplasma are difficult to detect and even harder to eliminate because they hide within tissues, form biofilms, and evade the immune system. Andrographis has been found to break down biofilms, making bacteria more vulnerable to treatment. It also helps to reduce inflammation caused by bacterial die-off reactions (Herxheimer reactions) and strengthen immune function without overstimulating it, making it particularly useful for those with autoimmune-related infections. Herbalists also use Andrographis for persistent, low-grade viral and bacterial infections that weaken the body over time, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and chronic post-viral fatigue syndromes. Its combination of antimicrobial, immune-balancing, and anti-inflammatory effects makes it a core herb in many integrative protocols for stealth infections.
• Liver Detoxification & Gut Health: In functional medicine, Andrographis is commonly used in liver detox protocols to support bile flow, reduce liver congestion, and eliminate environmental toxins. Studies suggest that it also supports gut health by reducing intestinal inflammation, balancing gut microbiota, and helping with conditions like dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
• A Plant-Based Alternative to Antibiotics: As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, Andrographis is emerging as a natural antimicrobial alternative that can fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi without disrupting the gut microbiome. Research indicates that Andrographis is effective against drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA and Streptococcus pneumoniae, making it a promising herbal ally in integrative medicine.

Scientifically Studied Benefits of Andrographis

Andrographis’ reputation as a potent immune-enhancer, anti-inflammatory agent, and liver protector isn’t just based on tradition—modern research confirms its broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, immune-modulating properties, and ability to combat chronic infections. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Andrographis can reduce the severity of viral infections, support liver detoxification, and help regulate inflammatory responses linked to chronic disease.

Immune Support & Antiviral Properties

Andrographis is one of the most well-researched herbal medicines for boosting immune function and reducing the duration of infections. It enhances the body's ability to fight off viruses, bacteria, and stealth pathogens by activating immune cells and modulating inflammatory cytokines.

• Shortens Cold & Flu Duration: A review of multiple studies found that Andrographis significantly reduces the severity of cold symptoms, including sore throat, cough, fever, and fatigue. [2]
• Fights Viral Infections: Andrographis has been shown to inhibit viral replication in influenza, coronaviruses, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and dengue (Sa-ngiamsuntorn et al., 2021, Journal of Natural Products). [3]
• Supports White Blood Cells: It enhances the body's ability to produce natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, which fight infections. [4]

Andrographis is a foundational herb in our Infection Support and The Fighter herbal tonics, with Infection Support specifically formulated for bacterial infections and The Fighter designed to target viral infections. Both blends help the body combat pathogens, strengthen immunity, and regulate inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory & Pain-Relieving Effects

Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, from arthritis to autoimmune conditions. Andrographis has been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, ease pain, and regulate the immune response, making it a valuable herb for inflammatory disorders.

• Arthritis & Joint Pain: A study on osteoarthritis patients found that Andrographis reduced joint pain and stiffness as effectively as NSAIDs but without side effects. [5]
• Gut Inflammation & IBS: Andrographis helps manage conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis by modulating gut inflammation. [6]
• Modulates Overactive Immune Responses: Studies indicate that Andrographis helps balance pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α, making it useful for autoimmune conditions and chronic inflammatory disorders. [7]

Liver Support: Detoxification & Repair

The liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins, processing hormones, and supporting metabolism. Andrographis has been shown to protect liver cells, reduce oxidative damage, and enhance detoxification pathways, making it one of the most respected hepatoprotective herbs.

• Liver Repair & Fatty Liver Disease: Clinical research has found that Andrographis can reduce liver enzyme levels (ALT & AST), regenerate liver cells, and improve liver function in patients with fatty liver disease and hepatitis.  [8]
• Enhances Bile Flow & Digestion: Studies show due to the bitter properties of Andrographis it stimulates bile production, which aids digestion and helps flush out toxins from the liver and gallbladder. 
• Protection Against Alcohol & Toxin-Induced Liver Damage: Studies show that Andrographis reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver, protecting against damage from alcohol, medications, and environmental toxins. [9]

Given its strong liver-protective properties, Andrographis is a key ingredient in our Liver Stress herbal tonic, designed to support detoxification, bile flow, and overall liver function.

Stealth Infections: Breaking Biofilms & Restoring Immunity

Stealth infections are caused by pathogens that evade the immune system and create long-term, low-grade infections, leading to conditions like Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and autoimmune disorders. Andrographis has gained recognition for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and its ability to break down biofilms, making hidden infections more vulnerable to treatment.

• Lyme Disease & Co-Infections: Andrographis has been studied for its ability to combat Borrelia (Lyme), Bartonella, Babesia, and Mycoplasma, which often form persistent infections that resist conventional antibiotics.
• Biofilm Disruption: Research suggests that Andrographis can break down bacterial biofilms, which are protective layers that allow stealth pathogens to hide from the immune system and resist treatment. [10]
• Supports Recovery from Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Andrographis has been shown to modulate immune function and reduce viral load, making it a valuable herb for chronic viral infections and post-viral fatigue syndromes. [11]

Because of its ability to break down biofilms, reduce inflammation, and support immune function, Andrographis is a key herb in our Stealth herbal tonic, specifically designed for long-term immune support and chronic infection recovery.

Respiratory & Lung Health

Infections and inflammation in the respiratory tract can lead to chronic coughs, asthma, and lung congestion. Andrographis has been traditionally used to clear mucus, reduce lung inflammation, and improve oxygenation, and modern studies confirm its effectiveness.

• Effective Against Bronchitis & Sinus Infections: Clinical trials found that Andrographis significantly reduced symptoms of acute bronchitis, including cough, congestion, and sore throat, allowing for faster recovery. [12]
• Asthma & Allergy Support: Research suggests that Andrographis helps reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing capacity in those with asthma and allergic respiratory conditions. [13]
• Mucolytic & Expectorant Properties: Andrographis has been traditionally used to thin mucus and promote its expulsion from the lungs, making it useful for chronic respiratory conditions and post-viral lung congestion.

Andrographis is also used in herbal formulas for pets, including our Cough Care blend, which helps support respiratory health in animals suffering from kennel cough, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections.

Gut Health & Antimicrobial Action

Andrographis has potent antimicrobial properties that help rebalance gut microbiota, fight bacterial overgrowth, and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

• Effective Against Bacterial Infections & Dysbiosis: Clinical studies show that Andrographis can inhibit pathogenic bacteria like E. coli, H. pylori, and Streptococcus, making it useful for gut infections and digestive imbalances. [14]
• Supports Intestinal Barrier Integrity: Research suggests Andrographis reduces gut inflammation and helps restore the gut lining, which may benefit those with leaky gut syndrome and inflammatory bowel conditions. [15]

A Herbal Powerhouse Backed by Science

From boosting immunity and fighting infections to protecting the liver and reducing inflammation, Andrographis has proven its effectiveness in both traditional medicine and modern clinical research. Whether used for acute illnesses, chronic infections, or long-term wellness, this time-tested herbal warrior continues to stand as one of nature’s most powerful healing plants.

Organs & Systems Supported by Andrographis

Immune System – Enhances resistance to infections and regulates inflammation.

Respiratory System –Clears mucus, reduces inflammation in bronchitis and sinusitis.

Liver & Detoxification – Protects the liver, enhances bile flow, and supports toxin elimination.

Digestive System – Supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and helps manage dysbiosis.

Joints & Muscles – Alleviates pain and inflammation in arthritis and muscle fatigue.

Andrographis Daily Dosage Recommendations

For best results, liquid extracts offer fast absorption and concentrated medicinal benefits compared to powders, capsules, or tablets. Tinctures extract a broader spectrum of beneficial plant compounds, including both water- and alcohol-soluble constituents, which may not be fully available in powdered or encapsulated forms. Unlike dried herbs that require digestion, tinctures bypass this step for quicker and more complete absorption. Our Andrographis tincture ensures you receive only the most potent medicinal constituents, without the bulk of indigestible plant matter.

• For Daily Immune Support & General Wellness: 2–4 ml per day
• For Acute Infections (Colds, Flu, Respiratory Support): 4–8 ml per day
• For Chronic Immune Support & Stealth Infections: 5–10 ml per day

For best results, take in split doses (morning and evening)

Our tinctures are alcohol-free, making them suitable for all ages and those who prefer to avoid alcohol. We use alcohol during the initial extraction process to draw out the full spectrum of medicinal compounds, then carefully remove the alcohol using a vacuum-based extraction method, leaving behind a pure, highly bioavailable herbal concentrate.

While powdered Andrographis is traditionally used, it requires higher doses to achieve similar effects. Capsules and tablets often contain binders and fillers, while tinctures deliver a pure, concentrated extract in an easy-to-take liquid form. Our alcohol-free tincture provides a highly bioavailable and effective way to support immune resilience, infection defense, and inflammation modulation. Find out more.

Safety & Contraindications for Andrographis

While Andrographis is generally safe for short-term use, it is a potent herb that may not be suitable for everyone. Below are key safety considerations:

• Pregnant & Breastfeeding - Andrographis is not recommended during pregnancy due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions, which may increase the risk of miscarriage. Breastfeeding mothers should also avoid Andrographis, as its bitter compounds can transfer into breast milk, potentially affecting the infant’s digestion and immune function.
• Autoimmune Disorders – Because Andrographis stimulates the immune system, it may exacerbate autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), and rheumatoid arthritis. Those with autoimmune diseases should consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Blood Pressure & Anticoagulants – Andrographis has mild blood pressure-lowering and blood-thinning effects, which may enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors) and anticoagulants (Warfarin, aspirin, or Plavix). This could lead to excessively low blood pressure or increased bleeding risk.
• Surgery & Bleeding Disorders – Due to its mild blood-thinning properties, Andrographis should be discontinued at least two weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. Individuals with hemophilia or other bleeding disorders should also avoid it.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity – Andrographis is a bitter herb, which stimulates digestive secretions. While beneficial for digestion, it may cause nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea in those with a sensitive stomach or GERD (acid reflux). Taking it with food may help reduce irritation.
• Children & Long-Term Use – Children: While Andrographis is sometimes used for short-term immune support in children, it is generally not recommended for those under 3 years old due to its intense bitterness and immune-stimulating effects. Dosages should always be adjusted based on body weight and given under medical supervision. Long-term use (beyond 10–12 weeks) may also cause digestive discomfort or reduce gut flora balance, so periodic breaks are advised.

Andrographis: Nature’s Enduring Shield for Health and Vitality

For centuries, Andrographis has served as a powerful defender of health, used across traditional healing systems to fight infections, support the liver, and calm inflammation. From ancient herbal wisdom to cutting-edge scientific research, its reputation as a potent immune modulator and antimicrobial powerhouse continues to grow. As modern medicine seeks effective natural solutions for immune resilience, chronic illness, and detoxification, Andrographis remains an indispensable botanical ally—a plant with the strength to protect, restore, and revitalise health for generations to come. As interest in Andrographis grows, choosing ethically sourced and sustainably harvested products ensures that this powerful herb remains available for future generations.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal remedies, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications. For pet health concerns, please seek guidance from a holistic veterinarian.