Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Andrographis
© Martin WallParts Used & Where Grown
Andrographis originated in the plains of India, and it also grows in China. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Common Cold and Sore Throat | A standardized extract providing 60 mg per day of active constituents in three divided doses |  [3 stars] Andrographis contains bitter constituents that are believed to have immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory actions. |
Immune Function | 48 to 60 mg andrographolides in two to three divided doses daily | [3 stars] Andrographis, with its immune systemenhancing actions, has been shown to reduce the severity of the common cold and may prevent the onset of a cold in healthy people. |
Infection | 48 to 60 mg andrographolides in two to three divided doses per day | [3 stars] Andrographis supports the immune system and protects against microbes. |
Hepatitis | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Andrographis, a traditional Indian herb, has been shown to help people with chronic viral hepatitis. |
HIV and AIDS Support | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] A trial of isolated andrographolides, found in andrographis, showed that they decreased viral load and increased CD4 lymphocyte levels in people with HIV infection. |
Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Andrographis acts as a digestive stimulant and may be helpful for indigestion. |
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Andrographis has long been used in traditional Indian and Chinese herbal medicine. The most common reported uses were for digestive problems (as is the case with most non-toxic bitter herbs such as andrographis), snakebite, and infections ranging from malaria to dysentery.1, 2 Interestingly, some of these uses have been validated by modern scientific research. Although the roots were sometimes used in traditional medicine, the leaves and flowers are now more commonly used.
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.