Andrographis

Also known as: andrographis paniculata, king of bitters, kalmegh

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbalimmune
200–400 mgStandardized extract (30% andrographolides); at first sign of illness, 2-3x daily

Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with strong evidence for reducing severity and duration of upper respiratory infections. Active compound andrographolide has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Best used acutely at illness onset.

🛡️Immunity
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

1

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Cycling Protocol

1 weeks on/3 weeks off

Best used acutely for respiratory infections rather than continuously; cycle for immune season prevention

Interaction Warnings

Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin)Moderate

May have antiplatelet effects — increases bleeding risk with anticoagulants.

ImmunosuppressantsModerate

Immune-stimulating effects may counteract immunosuppressive therapy.

Blood pressure medicationsLow

May have mild hypotensive effects — monitor blood pressure.

Important Notes

  • Most effective when started within 36-48 hours of symptom onset
  • Extremely bitter taste — capsules preferred over liquid
  • May cause GI upset at higher doses
  • Not for long-term continuous use — best as acute immune support

Clinical Evidence (1 study)

Andrographis paniculata for symptomatic relief of acute respiratory tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Hu XY et al. (2017) — PLoS One

Andrographis significantly reduced cough severity and sore throat in upper respiratory tract infections compared to placebo

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Andrographis.

Quercetin

Grade B

Versatile flavonoid with senolytic, immune, and anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc ionophore. Phytosome form critical for absorption.

🛡️ Immunity

Elderberry

Grade B

Antiviral berry extract that reduces cold duration by ~2 days and flu by ~4 days. Use standardized syrup, never raw berries.

🛡️ Immunity

Beta-Glucan

Grade B

Dual-purpose supplement: yeast-derived for immune support (250mg), oat-derived for cholesterol (3g). Both well-supported by RCTs.

🛡️ Immunity

Related Supplements

Echinacea

Grade C — Preliminary

Popular immune-support herb with modest evidence for reducing cold duration and severity when taken early. Species, plant part, and preparation method significantly affect efficacy. Best used acutely rather than continuously. Cycle on/off.

Astragalus

Grade C — Preliminary

Foundational Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with immune-modulating and potential anti-aging properties. Astragalus polysaccharides support immune function, and cycloastragenol may activate telomerase. Mostly preclinical evidence but long traditional use. Avoid with immunosuppressants.

Olive Leaf Extract

Grade C — Preliminary

Extract from olive tree leaves rich in oleuropein with evidence for blood pressure reduction, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant effects. Aligns with Mediterranean diet research. May lower blood pressure comparably to some medications. Monitor if on BP meds.

Quercetin

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Versatile flavonoid with senolytic, immune, and anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc ionophore. Phytosome form critical for absorption.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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