[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Andrographis paniculata
Other names include: Chuan Xin Lian, green chiretta, Kalmegh in Ayurveda.
Family Acanthaceae
Botany
Andrographis is an annual plant that Loves moist, shady locations.
Native to the tropics of India and Sri Lanka. Andrographis can be grown in an indoor garden.
Parts used: leaves and roots
Andrographis is used for medicinal purposes.
Historical use
Known in India as the "king of bitters".
Taste
Bitter
Therapeutic actions
Anti-bacterial: destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria
Anti-inflammatory: alleviate inflammation throughout the body
Anti-viral: destroy and inhibit the spread of viruses
Alterative: gradually restoring proper functioning to the body's metabolism
Depurative: helps to purify the body
Hepatoprotective
Immunomodulatory
Laxative: aids bowel evacuation
Prophylactic: prevents disease
Stomachic: digestive aid and tones the stomach
Safety
Safe to be taken by mouth.
Long term use of high doses can cause digestive upset, swollen lymph glands, or a rash in sensitive individuals.
Possibly unsafe to take by mouth during pregnancy, use caution.