A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Andrographis, also known as Andrographis paniculata, is a medicinal herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

It is valued for its potent therapeutic properties, especially in treating various ailments such as colds, fevers, liver disorders, and general debility.

ANDEROGRAOHIS PANICULATA

Table of Contents

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Family: Acanthaceae
  • Genus: Andrographis
  • Species: Andrographis paniculata
Common Names
  • Mahateekta, Kiryat, Kirata
  • The Great Bhunimba
  • Kalpanath, Kiryato, Olen-kirayet, Nalavemu, Nilavambu, Nilavoepu, The Great King of Bitters, etc.

First Prover: Dr. P.P. Biswas is recognized as the first prover of Andrographis paniculata.

His pioneering work has contributed significantly to the understanding of the medicinal properties of this plant.

Nomenclature: Andrographis paniculata is commonly known as Kalmegh, derived from its bitter taste and medicinal properties.

It is also referred to as The Great King of Bitters due to its potent bitter flavor and therapeutic effects.

Origin
  • Andrographis paniculata is native to South Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
  • It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and is often found growing wild in moist and shady areas.
  • Andrographis paniculata belongs to the family Acanthaceae, which comprises over 2500 species of flowering plants.
  • The genus Andrographis consists of around 28 species, with Andrographis paniculata being one of the most well-known and extensively studied species due to its medicinal properties.
Historical Facts
  • Andrographis paniculata has a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
  • It has been used for centuries in various cultures for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties.
  • Indigenous communities in South Asia have long utilized Kalmegh for its potent medicinal benefits, especially in treating fevers, infections, and digestive disorders.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

  • Andrographis acts primarily on the immune system, helping to stimulate immune response and combat infections.
  • It also exhibits anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and hepatoprotective properties, making it effective in treating fevers, liver disorders, and inflammatory conditions.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

  • Mind: Despondency, reluctance to engage in work or conversation, restlessness, and easy irritability.
  • Head: Giddiness, throbbing pain in the occiput, and heaviness.
  • Eyes: Redness and a yellowish tinge in the eyes may be present.
  • Nose: Watery discharge, sneezing, and occasional congestion.
  • Mouth: Bitter taste, dryness, burning sensation in the throat, and a white-coated tongue.
  • Abdomen: Burning sensation in the chest, abdominal heaviness, enlarged liver, and symptoms of infantile jaundice.
  • Stool: Alternating diarrhea and constipation, frequent urging for stool without evacuation, black, hard stool, and yellowish loose stool.
  • Urine: High-coloured, thick, and yellow urine.

MODALITIES

  • Symptoms worsen with heat, while they may be relieved by cold applications or exposure to cold air.
  • Fever symptoms are typically worse around 11 A.M. and again at 7-8 P.M.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

  • Andrographis may complement other remedies for treating colds, fevers, and liver disorders.
  • It can be used in conjunction with other immune-boosting herbs and supportive therapies.

DOSE

  • The potency of choice includes the mother tincture, 3x, 6x, and 30.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Andrographis paniculata used for?

  • Andrographis paniculata is commonly used to treat colds, fevers, liver disorders, and general debility.

What are the key characteristics of Andrographis?

  • Key characteristics include immune-stimulating properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and a bitter taste.

How should Andrographis be dosed?

  • Andrographis is typically available in various potencies, including mother tincture, 3x, 6x, and 30.
  • Dosage should be determined based on individual symptoms and the advice of a healthcare provider.

Meaning of Difficult Words

  • Despondency: A state of low spirits caused by loss of hope or courage.
  • Occiput: The back part of the head or skull.
  • Hepatoprotective: Having protective effects on the liver, guarding against damage or injury.
  • Antipyretic: A substance that reduces fever or fever symptoms.
  • Congestion: Blockage or accumulation of fluid in the nose or sinuses.
  • Acanthaceae: A family of flowering plants, commonly known as the acanthus family, which includes herbs, shrubs, and small trees.
  • Paniculata: Referring to the arrangement of flowers in a panicle, a type of inflorescence characterized by branching clusters of flowers.
  • Hepatoprotective: Having protective effects on the liver, guarding against damage or injury.
  • Indigenous: Native to a particular region or environment.
  • Febrifuge: A substance that reduces fever or fever symptoms.