Uses of Andrographis Paniculata
Andrographis paniculata, often shortened to its genus name, is a versatile medicinal herb. It is most popular in Ayurvedic medicine, and it is quickly gaining appeal for modern Western herbalists. The primary active component of andrographis has been identified as andrographolide, which shows promise in the treatment of numerous diseases. Andrographis may assist in the treatment or prevention of liver damage, infectious disease and some forms of cancer.-
Infectious Disease
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Scientific studies have identified andrographis as a successful treatment for various forms of infectious disease. In 2004, a review of andrographolide's medicinal properties confirmed that it appears to be an effective preventive treatment for several forms of upper-respiratory infection, including the common cold. A trial at Batsyr University concluded that the compound can also help to counteract HIV. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, andrographis has been used for its alleged antimalarial, antifungal and antibacterial properties as well.
Cancer
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Andrographis itself should not be relied on as a cure for cancer, but oncologists are engaged in ongoing research about the effect that andrographolide appears to have on cancer cells. In in-vitro tests, extracts of andrographis demonstrate an ability to arrest the growth of cancerous tumors. A 2003 review calls andrographis extract "an interesting pharmacophore with anticancer and immunomodulatory activities." Andrographolide still needs much more study before physicians can make a recommendation about its efficacy, but it may hold the key to finding an ultimate cure for cancer.
Liver Health
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Like milk thistle and dandelion, andrographis is a common component of liver-support herbal formulas. For thousands of years, andrographis has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to protect the liver from damage caused by hepatitis infection and liver toxins. Recently, modern research has confirmed andrographolide's hepatoprotective effects through animal testing, but few human studies have been performed. Herbalists and naturopathic doctors may recommend andrographis for people with viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer and other forms of liver disease.
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