Andrographis is a popular herb in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.
Andrographis paniculata is a native Indian plant and is used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for infections, worms, malaria, poor digestion and fever. In recent years, andrographis has demonstrated significant potential for use as a therapeutic remedy, with chemical constituents -- namely andrographolides -- that show activity against viruses, bacteria and free radicals. To support your immune system and overall well-being, andrographis leaves can be taken as a liquid extract, tablet, capsule or tea every day, with few side effects expected.
Immune System
Andrographis helps reduce the symptoms of bacterial and viral infections through promoting the body's natural immune system. In addition, andrographis has specific antibacterial, antiparasitic and antiviral activity. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website, andrographis helps reduce the symptoms of the common cold and decreases the chance of getting bronchitis. Take andrographis to help speed your recovery from acute respiratory infections and to support a healthy immune system.
Cardiovascular System
In recent research, andrographis has been shown to support the well-being of the heart, protecting it from disease. In a study published in "The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics" in 2008, researchers found chemicals in andrographis helped protect the heart from oxidative damage through promoting the body's antioxidant and glutathione levels. When taken internally, andrographis acts as a cardioprotective agent, and may prevent degenerative heart disease.
Detoxification system
In India, andrographis is known as the "King of Bitters," as the primary chemical constituent in andrographis has an intensely bitter taste. Like all bitter herbs, andrographis has a toning and stimulating effect on the digestive and detoxification organs, such as the stomach, liver and gallbladder. According to Kerry Bones, author of "Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs," andrographis has a stronger stimulatory effect on liver detoxification than St. Mary's thistle, another popular and well-studied liver herb. Use andrographis to cleanse and detoxify your body, as well as improve digestive problems such as constipation, flatulence and acid reflux.
Cancer Treatment
Andrographis has been the focus of research on killer diseases, such as various types of cancer, in recent years. In a study published in the "Chinese Journal of Chinese Materia Medica" in 2007, researchers found andrographis helped stimulate the death of unhealthy cancer cells, disrupted their cell cycle and promoted cancer-fighting lymphocytes in the body. Andrographis is a well-tolerated herb and can be taken with few side effects expected. Consult with your health care provider before combining andrographis with prescription medications.
Reproductive System
Andrographis plays a role in supporting healthy sexual function and hormonal balance, especially in men. In a study published in the scientific journal "Food and Chemical Toxicology" in 2010, researchers found that chemicals in andrographis significantly increased testosterone levels in mice. While andrographis had no effect on sperm count or sperm health, animals tested with andrographis did show improved sexual appetite. When considering natural treatments for increasing testosterone levels and libido, herbs such as andrographis offer safe and effective treatment.
Tags: researchers found, study published, andrographis helped, Ayurvedic medicine, chemicals andrographis, Chinese Ayurvedic, Chinese Ayurvedic medicine