Andrographis an Ayurvedic Medicinal Herb

Andrographis is an Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicinal herb which has been found to be an effective anti-biotic, anti-viral, anti-parasitic and immune system stimulant. It is a "cold" herb which has strong heat clearing actions. It is recommended to be used in combination such as with echinacea. In a comparison study (see Research below) between Andrographis and echinacea, andrographis was more effective at early stage infection than echinacea.

Actions And Properties: 

Bitter
Choleretic
Anti-bacterial
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-viral
Anti-parasitic
Immuno-stimulant
Hepato-protective
Anti-pyretic
Anti-platelet
Stimulant
Abortificant

Energetics - Cold, bitter, dry
Organs - Large intestine, lung, stomach, bladder, and liver meridians.

Constituents: 

Andrographan
Andrographolide
Neoandrographolide
Paniculide A
14-deoxy-11-oxyandrographolide
Beta-sitosterol

Uses: Highly recommended for excess fire or heat conditions, colds and influenza, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, acute bacterial sinusitis, fever, inflammation and any "pus forming" conditions of the skin. It is also used for intestinal disturbances and parasitic conditions, hepatitis, infected wounds and as a uterine stimulant. Research shows possible anti-cancer activity.

Warnings And Safety: 
Do not use if preganant, it may cause miscarriage. Do not use in the case of deficient, cold intestinal conditions. Large or long term use may cause gastric disturbances and loss of appetite.