Andrographis paniculata: a medicinal plant for supporting respiratory health.

Andrographis paniculata is a medicinal plant cultivated in South Asia. In Thailand, supplements made from this plant are widely used to support respiratory health.

Extracts and powders derived from Andrographis paniculata show potential across a range of uses, including alleviating common cold symptoms.

The primary active compound in Andrographis paniculata is andrographolide, extracted from the plant’s leaves and stems. Scientific studies indicate anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of andrographolide.

The medical use of Andrographis paniculata has been well described; however, additional research is needed to confirm its advantages and effectiveness based on robust evidence.

This article takes a closer look at Andrographis paniculata supplements and the research supporting their potential uses, benefits, and possible side effects. 

In Thailand, Andrographis paniculata is known as Far Talai Jone, with other variants such as Fah Talai Jone, Karyat.

Uses and benefits of Andrographis supplements

Andrographis paniculata: an effective plant traditionally used for various conditions

Importantly, Andrographis paniculata has been used for centuries in different parts of Asia to address a variety of conditions—from diabetes and high blood pressure to influenza and malaria.

Today, products based on Andrographis are used worldwide for several purposes:

• Respiratory health: one of the most notable uses of Andrographis is easing symptoms of colds and other respiratory infections, such as cough and sore throat. Moreover, Andrographis was reportedly used during the 1919 influenza epidemic in India. Studies have shown that taking higher doses of Andrographis for three days eased tonsillitis symptoms as effectively as acetaminophen (paracetamol). Andrographis was also actively used during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand in public hospitals alongside standard therapy.

• Anti-inflammatory action: Andrographis exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers believe this may be linked to its ability to reduce cytokines in the body—chemical mediators that drive inflammation. This could help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, a condition caused by joint inflammation.

• Osteoarthritis: A 2019 study found that a 28-day course of a supplement containing andrographolide significantly reduced pain in men and women with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. The presence of a placebo group supports the reliability of the findings and suggests the supplement may be an effective therapy for this condition.

If you are interested in Andrographis paniculata and want to learn more about its potential effects, benefits, and possible side effects, we invite you to explore our range of supplements based on this unique plant. Your health and well-being are our priority, and we are always happy to help you choose the right product for your needs.

Medical applications

The aerial parts (leaves and stems), roots, and the whole plant of Andrographis have been used for centuries in Asia within traditional medicine to address a variety of ailments. Traditional uses include abdominal pain, inflammation, pyrexia, and intermittent fever. The whole plant has been used for several purposes, such as an antidote to snake bites and certain insect bites, and to address dyspepsia, influenza, dysentery, malaria, and respiratory infections. Leaf extract is a traditional remedy for infectious diseases, feverish conditions, colic, loss of appetite, irregular stools, and diarrhea. In Malaysia, decoctions of aerial parts are used for colds, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, malaria, and snake bites. Andrographis is an important component of at least 26 Ayurvedic formulas in the Indian pharmacopeia. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is considered a heat-clearing herb used to reduce heat and fever and help expel toxins from the body. In the Ayurvedic system among Tamil Nadu tribes (India), this herb is used for various conditions such as dysmenorrhea, leucorrhea, malaria, jaundice, gonorrhea, and is also applied to wounds, cuts, boils, and skin conditions.

Phytochemistry

Andrographis contains various compounds in the aerial parts and roots, which are often targeted when extracting active constituents. Multiple factors—including geographic region, harvest timing, and processing methods—explain variability in its chemical composition. Phytochemical studies have led to the isolation of many plant metabolites. Among these, terpenoids (ent‑labdane diterpene lactones) account for a large share of its components and reported activities. Other classes isolated include flavonoids (flavones), noriridoids, xanthones, polyphenols, as well as trace and macro elements.

Terpenoids

Diterpenoid lactones are the most common terpenoid compounds isolated from Andrographis. Diterpenes are widespread and have been isolated from the aerial parts and roots of this plant. Among diterpenes identified and isolated from Andrographis paniculata, andrographolide is the most prominent by prevalence and quantity. Andrographolide is intensely bitter, colorless, crystalline, and was first isolated in pure form in 1911. Dominant diterpenoids, in addition to andrographolide—mainly from the aerial parts—include deoxyandrographolide and neoandrographolide. These diterpenoids have been isolated. Other diterpenes, beyond the dominant ones, have also been isolated over the years by various researchers, including an unusual 23‑carbon terpenoid isolated from roots and aerial parts.

Other compounds

Flavones are the primary flavonoids isolated from aerial parts, roots, and the whole plant. Several distinct compounds have been isolated, particularly from the roots of Andrographis. Four xanthones were isolated from roots using a combination of thin-layer and column chromatography and characterized by IR, mass spectrometry, and NMR as 1,8‑dihydroxy‑3,7‑dimethoxyxanthone, 4,8‑dihydroxy‑2,7‑dimethoxyxanthone, 1,2‑dihydroxy‑6,8‑dimethoxyxanthone, and 3,7,8‑trimethoxy‑1‑hydroxyxanthone. Five rare noriridoids, designated Andrographolide A–E, along with curvifloroside, were isolated from roots. Arabinogalactan proteins were isolated from dried herb in 2007. Microelements (Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, Cu, Se, Rb, Sr, Pb) and macroelements (potassium and calcium) were identified and quantified in roots. Cinnamic, caffeic, ferulic, and chlorogenic acids were also isolated from the whole plant.

Pharmacology

The use of Andrographis in folk medicine is well known in many parts of the world, especially in Asia. Interest in this plant has driven scientific research to evaluate its therapeutic value across a broad range of conditions. Numerous studies report diverse biological activities, including antimicrobial, cytotoxic, anti‑protozoal, anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti‑diabetic, anti‑infective, anti‑angiogenic, hepato‑ and reno‑protective, sex‑function related, hormone‑modulating properties, and modulation of hepatic enzymes. In addition, insecticidal and toxic effects have been noted in certain contexts.

This breadth of pharmacological properties makes Andrographis a potentially valuable subject of research for developing future therapeutic agents. Deeper exploration of its chemistry and mechanisms of action may further clarify its potential and applicability across medical fields.

However, before using Andrographis‑based products for any condition, additional clinical studies are needed to confirm safety and efficacy in patients. This is essential for appropriate and safe use in medical practice.

Antimicrobial activity

Aqueous extract, andrographolides, and arabinogalactan proteins isolated from dried herb were investigated for antimicrobial activity. Results showed that the aqueous extract and arabinogalactan proteins had antibacterial effects against Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while andrographolide showed activity only against B. subtilis. All three preparations displayed antifungal activity against Candida albicans.

Anti‑inflammatory/anti‑allergic effects

Aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts demonstrated substantial reductions in pro‑inflammatory mediators (NO, IL‑1β, IL‑6), inflammation mediators (PGE2, TXB2), and allergy mediators (LTB4), without affecting histamine release. A study of seven phytochemicals from leaves—andrographolide, neoandrographolide, isoandrographolide, andrograpanin, 7‑O‑methylwogonin, 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide, and skullcapflavone‑1—found that andrographolide, isoandrographolide, 7‑O‑methylwogonin, and skullcapflavone‑1 significantly inhibited NO and PGE2 in LPS‑stimulated macrophages. Andrographolide, isoandrographolide, and 7‑O‑methylwogonin also inhibited IL‑1β, while andrographolide, isoandrographolide, and skullcapflavone‑1 reduced IL‑6 in a concentration‑dependent manner. Furthermore, andrographolide, isoandrographolide, and skullcapflavone‑1 strongly suppressed TXB4 in activated HL‑60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. Anti‑allergic potential was also investigated via A23187‑stimulated LTB4; skullcapflavone and 7‑O‑methylwogonin inhibited LTB4 at 63 μM and 33.5 μM, with 30.5% and 19.6% inhibition; captopril IC50 was 48 μM. 7‑O‑methylwogonin was the only phytocomponent to strongly and dose‑dependently inhibit histamine release in RBL‑2H3 basophilic leukemia cells. Andrographolide, dehydroandrographolide, and neoandrographolide from aerial parts inhibited COX activity. 

Andrographolide and dehydroandrographolide markedly inhibited COX‑1 in human platelets (A23187‑induced). Dehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide strongly suppressed LPS‑stimulated COX‑2 activity in human blood. Dehydroandrographolide also modulated LPS‑induced TNF‑α, IL‑6, IL‑1β, and IL‑10 secretion in a concentration‑dependent manner, indicating the highest potency among tested components. The mechanism may involve down‑regulation of genes in the inflammatory cascade.

Andrograpanin from ethanolic leaf extract showed dose‑dependent inhibition of nitric oxide and pro‑inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL‑6, IL‑12p70) in LPS‑activated macrophages. Significant NO inhibition occurred at 30 and 75 μM, approaching near‑complete suppression. Pro‑inflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced at 1.5 μM, with near‑complete inhibition at 90 μM. RT‑PCR and Western blot suggested suppression via down‑regulating iNOS and cytokine gene expression and p38 MAPK signaling. Additional work indicates strong post‑translational suppression of IL‑12 p35/p40 proteins.

Antioxidant activity

Andrographolide and aqueous extract were evaluated for antioxidant activity against nicotine‑induced oxidative stress in liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and spleen of male Wistar rats. Intraperitoneal administration (25 mg/kg for 7 days) reduced lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant enzymes compared with nicotine‑only controls. Methanolic and aqueous leaf extracts from different locales, plus isolated andrographolide and 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide, inhibited lipid peroxidation in Sprague Dawley rat models and showed DPPH radical scavenging. Methanolic extracts demonstrated higher activity (55.6–63.9%) than aqueous (33.78–33.77%) and stronger scavenging (45.67–53.82%); andrographolide, 40.2%; 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide, 46.43%. Activities were lower than quercetin (89%) and BHA (71%). A 14‑day oral course of methanolic leaf extract (1 g/kg) followed by CCl4 challenge preserved catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and normalized lipid peroxidation and transaminases toward control values; diterpenes were detected in plasma post‑dose, suggesting they contribute to observed effects.

Immunostimulatory activity

Ethanolic extract of fresh plant and purified diterpenes (andrographolide, neoandrographolide) stimulated antibody formation and delayed‑type hypersensitivity to sheep RBCs in mice. Preparations enhanced non‑specific immune responses: macrophage migration, phagocytosis of 14C‑labeled E. coli, and splenic lymphocyte proliferation. Whole extract effects exceeded those of isolated diterpenes, indicating other constituents contribute to immunostimulation.

The dichloromethane fraction of a methanolic whole‑plant extract significantly enhanced proliferation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes (up to +52% at low concentrations). Methanolic extract, petroleum ether fraction, and aqueous fraction also increased proliferation (to a lesser extent: +18%, +18%, +4%). Screening of three diterpenes (andrographolide, 14‑deoxyandrographolide, 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide) from the dichloromethane fraction showed moderate enhancement at 1 μM, with andrographolide producing the greatest increase (+14%).

Cytotoxicity

Antiproliferative testing with methanolic extract, petroleum ether fraction, dichloromethane fraction, and aqueous fraction against HT‑29 colon cancer cells showed 50% growth inhibition at 10 μg/mL for methanolic extract; GI50 values were 46 μg/mL (petroleum ether) and 10 μg/mL (dichloromethane). The aqueous fraction showed no effect. Andrographolide inhibited proliferation across screened cancer cell lines; 14‑deoxyandrographolide showed moderate activity against two lines; 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide showed none. Findings align with prior reports of andrographolide cytotoxicity against epidermoid carcinoma and leukemia cell lines; methanolic extract and constituents also inhibited murine myeloid leukemia cell growth. Semi‑synthetic andrographolide analogs (e.g., 19‑isopropylidene‑, 14‑acetyl‑) showed cytotoxic activity across screening panels. Root xanthones showed IC50 values >16 μg/mL, indicating non‑cytotoxic behavior per WHO criteria.

Anti‑diabetic effects

Andrographolide and 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide from alcoholic extracts of aerial parts reduced diabetic nephropathy‑related phenotypes in MES‑13 cells (e.g., fibronectin, TGF‑β, oxidative stress, caspase‑3). The latter compound showed stronger effects on caspase‑3, TGF‑β, and PAI‑1. Both reduced reactive oxygen species in MES‑13 cells.

An aqueous extract (50 mg/kg) significantly lowered blood glucose in streptozotocin‑induced hyperglycemic rats (P < 0.05); a lyophilized material (6.25 mg/kg) produced a greater reduction (61.81%, P < 0.001). The aqueous extract did not significantly affect glucose in normoglycemic rats.

Anti‑protozoal activity

Four root xanthones were tested against Plasmodium falciparum; only 1,2‑dihydroxy‑6,8‑dimethoxyxanthone showed significant antiplasmodial activity (IC50 = 4 μg/mL). In vivo, this compound reduced parasitemia by 62% in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. Andrographolide, neoandrographolide, deoxyandrographolide, and andrographoside from leaves also showed activity against P. berghei NK65 in Mastomys natalensis.

Insecticidal activity

Ovicidal and larvicidal activity of unrefined leaf extracts was evaluated against Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti using benzene, hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and chloroform. Extracts showed greater activity against Culex, with LC50 values of 112.19, 137.48, 118.67, 102.05, and 91.20 mg/L (respectively), versus 119.58, 146.34, 124.24, 110.12, and 99.54 mg/L for Aedes. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts showed the strongest ovicidal effects. At 200 mg/L, methanol and ethyl acetate extracts caused 100% larval mortality for Culex; 250 mg/L was required for Aedes. 

Anti‑infective activity

Leaf extract efficacy was observed for uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections. In a randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial using a visual analog scale, a proprietary extract (Kalmcold) significantly reduced symptom scores (P < 0.05) for all but ear pain versus placebo, which showed no improvement or worsening by day 3. Kalmcold was 2.1× (52.7%) more effective than placebo in reducing symptoms. Another extract (SHA‑10; 1200 mg/day) reduced symptom intensity (fatigue, insomnia, sore throat, nasal discharge) beginning day 2 versus placebo; by day 4, all symptom domains (headache, fatigue, ear pain, insomnia, sore throat, nasal discharge, sputum, cough) were significantly improved.

Anti‑angiogenic activity

Anti‑angiogenic effects of ethanolic whole‑plant extract and andrographolide were studied in vitro and in vivo. Intraperitoneal administration reduced capillary formation in C57BL/6 mice with B16F‑10 melanoma by 35.96% and 31.1% (P < 0.001). Treatments also lowered serum pro‑inflammatory cytokines (IL‑1β, IL‑6, TNF‑α, NO, GM‑CSF) and VEGF versus controls, and down‑regulated VEGF mRNA in B16F‑10 cells. Anti‑angiogenic factors (TIMP‑1, IL‑2) increased. Both preparations inhibited microvessel sprouting from rat thoracic aorta ex vivo.

Hepato‑renal protective activity

Andrographolides and arabinogalactan proteins from the herb were investigated for protection against ethanol‑induced toxicity in mice. Seven‑day pretreatment reduced liver/kidney enzyme disturbances versus ethanol controls.

Modulation of liver enzymes

Andrographolide and 14‑deoxy‑11,12‑didehydroandrographolide inhibited mRNA and protein expression of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 in HepG2 cells, including suppression of dexamethasone‑induced CYP3A4. In vivo work indicates a possible role of male hormones in CYP1 modulation by andrographolide. Co‑administration studies in rats showed altered theophylline pharmacokinetics, suggesting potential herb–drug interactions; users should seek medical advice.

Effects on sex hormones and function

Oral administration of leaf extract to pregnant rats (19 days; 200–2000 mg/kg) at human‑equivalent therapeutic ranges did not elevate serum progesterone versus controls, suggesting no abortifacient effect at these doses. In male mice, andrographolide (50 mg/kg) improved certain sexual function parameters, potentially via smooth muscle relaxation and increased penile blood flow; testosterone rose at week 4, returning to baseline by weeks 6–8 with continued dosing. Sperm count and motility were not affected.

Toxicity

Safety of an A. paniculata extract (Kalmcold) was supported by negative genotoxicity tests; oral acute toxicity in rats exceeded 5 g/kg. An ethanolic dried herb extract showed no adverse testicular effects across doses (20, 200, 1000 mg/kg) in Sprague Dawley rats based on organ weights, testicular histology, Leydig cell ultrastructure, and testosterone levels. 

Conclusion

Andrographis paniculata is widely used in traditional medicine across India, China, and Southeast Asia. Aerial parts are the main medicinal materials and have been used to address snake and insect bites and to relieve fever, sore throat, cough, and abdominal pain.

Phytochemical studies indicate that key constituents from aerial parts are diterpenoid lactones and flavonoids. Roots contain xanthones, rare noriridoids, and trace elements.

Investigations of extracts and purified compounds from Andrographis paniculata report multiple biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, anti‑diabetic, cytotoxic, immunomodulatory, modulation of sex hormones, hepatic enzyme activity, anti‑malarial, anti‑angiogenic, and hepato‑renal protective effects. Diterpene lactones—especially the bitter andrographolide—are noteworthy.

This overview presents a clear picture of the phytochemistry, traditional uses, and pharmacology of Andrographis paniculata. Nonetheless, more research is required to fully understand its chemical profile and complex pharmacological effects, and to define safety across extracts from various plant parts. Rigorous clinical and toxicological studies are important to ensure safe, appropriate use in modern practice. 

This material is an adapted of an article from the National Library of Medicine, PubMed Central.

References and authorship are listed in the source.

Source - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4032030/