Andrographis

Andrographis is available in easy-to-take vegetable capsules. 

For example, Andrographis Organic India contains 325 mg of powder from the aerial part of the plant per capsule, and Andrographis SE from Nature's Way contains standardized extract with 10% andrographolides, 300 mg + complex extract from the stem, leaf, and flower, 100 mg.

There is also an Andrographis tincture, obtained by alcoholic extraction from the Andrographis paniculata plant.

Andrographis paniculata is recommended in multiple clinical and physiological situations, being used as an adjuvant or prophylactic supplement:

• Upper respiratory tract infections – colds, pharyngitis, sinusitis, early bronchitis, by reducing the duration and severity of symptoms
• Stimulation of the immune system – supporting the adaptive and innate response by activating macrophages, T lymphocytes, and interleukin-2
• Antiviral and antibacterial properties – preventing the replication of pathogens and reducing the microbial load
• Supports liver function – protects against oxidative stress, maintains normal transaminase (AST, ALT) levels, and stimulates bile secretion
• Detoxification and antioxidant protection – neutralization of free radicals and maintenance of normal lipid metabolism

The recommended dosage varies depending on the form of presentation and therapeutic objectives:

• Andrographis Organic India: 2 capsules twice daily with meals for up to 3 months, or as recommended by your doctor.
• Andrographis SE (Nature’s Way): 1 capsule twice daily with meals, with at least 200 ml of water.

The administration of Andrographis is contraindicated in certain situations:

• Hypersensitivity to the plant Andrographis paniculata or to the excipients of the product
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis) – due to its immunostimulatory effects, it may exacerbate symptoms
• Coagulation disorders, without medical advice
• Children under 12 years of age, in the absence of clear medical recommendations

Organic certified products vary in color, smell, and appearance from batch to batch, without affecting their effectiveness.

Administration is more effective when the capsules are taken with meals for optimal absorption.

It can be used in seasonal treatments, especially in autumn and winter, to prevent recurrent episodes of respiratory infections.

Reported side effects are rare and generally mild:

• Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
• Headache and fatigue
• Allergic skin reactions (hives, itching)

In very rare cases, high doses may cause transient hypotension.

Andrographis may interact with certain medications:

• Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., cyclosporine, methotrexate) – Andrographis may counteract their effects by stimulating the immune response
• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents – there is a possibility of an increased risk of bleeding
• Antihypertensive drugs – concomitant administration may potentiate the blood pressure lowering effect

Data on overdose are limited, but very high doses may induce symptoms such as severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and hypotension.

Treatment is symptomatic, with monitoring of vital signs and liver function.

Andrographis should be stored in a dry place, away from light and heat sources, at an optimal temperature below 25°C. Keep out of the reach and sight of small children. Do not use after the expiry date stated on the package.

• WebMD, Andrographis
• Healthline, What you need to know about Andrographis supplements: potential benefits and uses
• Pubmed, Exploiting the medicinal properties of Andrographis paniculata for treating diseases and more: an analysis of its phytochemistry and pharmacology
• MDPI, A Comprehensive Analysis of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees and Its Components as Potential Lead Compounds for COVID-19 Drug Discovery