Botanical Overview
Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as King of Bitters or Kalmegh, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Acanthaceae family. Native to South and Southeast Asia, this plant’s leaves and whole plant are primarily used in traditional herbal medicine.
Energetics
The energetics of Andrographis paniculata are characterized as cooling and drying, with a notably bitter taste. Its action is predominantly descending and tonifying, influencing the qi system.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiviral
- Immune stimulant
- Bitter tonic
Indications
Western
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Fever
- Common cold
- Influenza symptoms
- Sore throat
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
Syndromes
- Acute respiratory infections
- Viral infections
- Feverish conditions
TCM
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Throat swelling
- Toxic heat signs
Syndromes
- Heat toxin syndrome
- Febrile diseases
Ayurveda
- Fever
- Infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Digestive discomfort
Syndromes
- Jvara (fever)
- Kasa (cough)
- Pitta imbalance
Unani
- Fever
- Cough
- Weak digestion
- Inflammatory states
Syndromes
- Humor imbalance
- Inflammatory disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
The phytochemical composition includes andrographolides, flavonoids, diterpenoids, and quinic acid derivatives, which contribute to its immunomodulating and antiviral properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powder: 300-600 mg daily standardized extract
- Decoction: 2–4 g twice daily
- Tincture: 1:5 40% ethanol, 2–5 mL, 1–3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Andrographis paniculata is generally well tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Caution is recommended with anticoagulants and immunosuppressant drugs due to potential interactions.
Astrological Correspondences
No firmly established planetary or elemental rulerships are documented in reputable esoteric herbal sources for Andrographis paniculata.
Selected References
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (2004)
- European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph (2017)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica by Bensky et al. (2004)
- Pharmacology and clinical applications of Andrographis paniculata, PubMed (2004)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India