Evidence supporting the use of: Andrographis
For the health condition: Contagious Diseases
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Andrographis paniculata has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for the treatment of infectious and febrile illnesses. More recently, scientific studies have explored its efficacy in supporting the body against contagious diseases, particularly respiratory tract infections such as the common cold and influenza. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials indicate that standardized Andrographis extracts can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms in acute upper respiratory tract infections, with some evidence suggesting it may decrease the likelihood of developing complications. Its presumed mechanisms of action include immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects, largely attributed to its main active constituent, andrographolide. However, while these findings are promising, most studies focus on mild to moderate viral respiratory illnesses; robust evidence for its use in other contagious diseases (such as bacterial or more severe viral infections) is limited. Overall, the evidence base is moderate, warranting a rating of 3, and suggests Andrographis may be a helpful adjunct for mild contagious respiratory diseases, but more research is needed to define its role in other infectious conditions.
Other ingredients used for Contagious Diseases
black currantturmeric
elderberry
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea
lactoferrin
licorice root
monolaurin
pomegranate
quercetin
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
siler root
Artesunate
Andrographis
Echinacea
Other health conditions supported by Andrographis
AbscessesAntibiotics (alternatives to)
Arthritis
Asthma
Bladder Infection
Bronchitis
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Contagious Diseases
Convalescence
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Fever
Hepatitis
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Influenza
Liver Detoxification
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Malaria
Pain (general remedies for)
Pneumonia
Psoriasis
Sinus Infection
Sore Throat
Staph Infections
Tonsillitis
Tuberculosis
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores