The herb Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as “King of Bitters” in Asia, is native to the Indian subcontinent and has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant. The plant’s extract has been shown to benefit human health, especially in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. In Asia, it is a popular remedy for fevers and infections, especially those caused by viruses and bacteria. It also has been used to treat liver disorders and snakebites and anti-atherosclerotic action.
The herb contains several constituents, most of which belong to the ent-labdane class. These compounds are present in both glycosidic and free forms, isolated from A. paniculata leaves are referred to as andrographolides. Phytochemical studies of Andrographis paniculata extract have shown that it contains a broad range of phytochemicals, including andrographolide, which has shown antibacterial activity in a variety of studies. Andrographolide is the main active compound found in this plant, although neoandrographolide and 14-deoxyandrographolide are also significant. The benefits of Andrographis paniculata extract attribute these useful compounds.
- Anti-bacterial & anti-inflammatory
Andrographis paniculata benefits include a host of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. It is also an effective remedy against respiratory infections, which it helps prevent and reduce. In addition, it inhibits the production of bacterial efflux pumps and virulence factors. Inhibiting these pathways prevents biofilm formation and makes bacteria sensitive to antibiotics. It also inhibits the expression of ICAM-1, an important adhesion molecule that helps cells attach to one another. It also has anti-ulcer properties. - Antiviral
Some research has demonstrated that andrographis paniculata benefits also include antiviral activity. It can inhibit the growth of human breast cancer cells. It can also inhibit the replication and growth of various cancer cells. Research has also shown that andrographolide, a component of andrographis paniculata, induces cell cycle arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in HL-60 cells. Furthermore, it boosts antioxidant defense enzymes in the body. - Antiparasitic
The Andrographis paniculata herb has been used as a traditional herbal medicine for centuries due to its antiparasitic properties and has been found to be useful in treating several infectious diseases. - Analgesic
It is a safe and effective herbal remedy. Andrographis paniculata’s dried extract has been shown to be effective for treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Moreover, it has been shown to reduce the frequency of coughing. Analgesic activity of andrographis paniculata has been well documented in animal studies. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on diabetic mice and rats in a double-blind study. - Blood purifying
Andrographis paniculata benefits include a blood purifying and immune-stimulating action. It also inhibits platelet aggregation. In vitro studies have shown that andrographolide increases the production of interleukin-2 and lymphocyte proliferation. In humans, andrographolide inhibits the production of harmful free radicals and enhances the immune response.
In short, Andrographis paniculata has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of conditions, including the prevention and treatment of common colds, respiratory infections and hypertriglyceridemia. Further, it is used for sexual dysfunction and as a contraceptive. It may also help treat rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. It also supports the health of the heart, liver, gallbladder, and other organs. It also increases nitric oxide levels and reduces lipid peroxide and endothelin levels. In addition, it has been studied as a possible alternative treatment for cardiovascular diseases. However, further research is needed to determine the exact components of andrographis to see if it is suitable for the treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
