Andrographis
Andrographis paniculata · Acanthaceae
Reviewed by The Sarv Health Team · Updated June 29, 2026 · Our editorial process
Andrographis is an intensely bitter herb used in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese medicine, and across Southeast Asia, where it is known as the king of bitters. Classified as bitter and cooling, it is one of the most respected remedies for colds, flu, and infections, and is often called Indian echinacea for its immune-supporting role. Its foremost use is at the first sign of colds and upper respiratory infections, where it is taken to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms such as sore throat, fever, cough, and fatigue, and to support the immune system. Andrographis is also a classic remedy for clearing heat and toxins, used for fevers and infections, and as a bitter tonic that supports the liver and digestion. Its active compounds, the andrographolides, underlie its immune, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects. Cooling and cleansing, andrographis is treasured as a remedy for colds and flu, immunity, fevers, and liver support.
Medicinal Uses
Andrographis is an erect annual herb with an intensely bitter taste, used for centuries in Ayurveda (where it is known as kalmegh), in Traditional Chinese medicine, and throughout Southeast Asia. Its reputation as the king of bitters reflects both its flavor and its potency, and it is classified as bitter and cooling.
The foremost medicinal use of andrographis is for colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. It is one of the best-studied herbs for this purpose and is sometimes called Indian echinacea. Taken at the first sign of illness, it is traditionally used to reduce the severity and shorten the duration of symptoms such as sore throat, fever, runny nose, cough, headache, and fatigue, while supporting the immune system in fighting the infection.
Andrographis is also a classic remedy for clearing heat and toxins. In both Ayurvedic and Chinese traditions it is used for fevers, throat and respiratory infections, and a range of inflammatory and infectious conditions, helping to cool the body and resolve toxicity.
As a powerful bitter, the herb additionally supports the liver and digestion. It is used to stimulate appetite and digestion, to support healthy liver function and detoxification, and it has traditional use for digestive infections and sluggish digestion.
Andrographis owes its effects largely to bitter compounds called andrographolides, which provide immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and liver-protective actions that have been the focus of considerable research. Cooling and cleansing, andrographis is treasured as a remedy for colds and flu, immune support, fevers, and the liver.
Benefits
Eases colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections, reduces severity and duration of symptoms, supports the immune system, soothes sore throat and fever, clears heat and toxins, supports the liver and detoxification, stimulates appetite and digestion, provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects
How to Use & Dosage
250-500 mg of andrographis powder, taken 1-2 times daily.
400-600 mg of andrographis extract, taken 2-3 times daily at the onset of a cold (standardized to andrographolides).
Steep 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried andrographis in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups daily (very bitter).
2-4 ml (about 40-80 drops), taken 2-3 times daily.
More Info
Frequently asked questions
What is Andrographis used for?
Andrographis is an erect annual herb with an intensely bitter taste, used for centuries in Ayurveda (where it is known as kalmegh), in Traditional Chinese medicine, and throughout Southeast Asia. Its reputation as the king of bitters reflects both its flavor and its potency, and it is classified as bitter and cooling. The foremost medicinal use of andrographis is for colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections.
What are the benefits of Andrographis?
Eases colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections, reduces severity and duration of symptoms, supports the immune system, soothes sore throat and fever, clears heat and toxins, supports the liver and detoxification, stimulates appetite and digestion, provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects
How do you take Andrographis?
Common preparations include powder, capsules, infusion, tincture. See the dosage guidance above, and consult a qualified practitioner for amounts suited to you.
This information is for general wellness and educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.
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