Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Green Chiretta (Andrographis paniculata)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Acanthaceae
  • Common Names: Green Chiretta, King of Bitters, Kalmegh
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems), roots

Description

Andrographis paniculata is an annual herbaceous plant native to South and Southeast Asia, particularly India and Sri Lanka. Known for its intensely bitter taste, it has long been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat infections, inflammation, and liver disorders.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Widely used in Ayurveda as a liver tonic and to treat jaundice.
  • Employed in traditional Chinese medicine to combat fevers, colds, and respiratory infections.
  • Used as an anti-inflammatory and digestive remedy in Southeast Asia.

Constituents

  • Andrographolide (a diterpenoid lactone)
  • Flavonoids
  • Polyphenols
  • Alkaloids
  • Essential oils

Actions

  • Antimicrobial
  • Antiviral
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Hepatoprotective (protects the liver)
  • Immune-modulating
  • Antipyretic (reduces fever)

Medicinal Uses

1. Immune System Support:
Andrographis paniculata is commonly used to boost the immune system and prevent or reduce the severity of colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.

2. Respiratory Health:
Its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties help relieve symptoms of bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throat, and cough.

3. Liver Health:
Andrographis acts as a hepatoprotective agent, supporting liver detoxification and protecting against liver damage, particularly in cases of jaundice or hepatitis.

4. Digestive Aid:
The plant’s bitter properties stimulate digestion, improve appetite, and relieve gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery.

5. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Andrographis helps alleviate inflammation-related conditions, including arthritis and muscle pain.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • Standardized extracts (containing 10-30% andrographolide) are commonly taken in doses of 400-600 mg per day.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy due to possible uterine stimulation.
  • Autoimmune Disorders: Use cautiously as it may overstimulate the immune system.
  • Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: High doses may cause digestive upset.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic: Cooling and drying, used to balance excess pitta and kapha by reducing heat and inflammation.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine: Clears heat and toxins from the body.

Combinations

  • For Immune Boosting: Combine with echinacea and elderberry.
  • For Liver Health: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion root.
  • For Respiratory Relief: Combine with thyme and licorice root.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves and aerial parts are harvested before flowering, while roots can be collected at the end of the growing season.
  • Drying: Dry in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried materials in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have shown that andrographolide, the active compound in Andrographis paniculata, possesses significant anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective effects. Ongoing research explores its role in treating infections, liver disorders, and autoimmune conditions.

Green Chiretta remains an important herb in traditional and modern medicine, valued for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protective properties.