Evidence supporting the use of: Andrographolide
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Andrographolide, a diterpenoid lactone isolated from the plant Andrographis paniculata, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for treating infections, particularly those involving the respiratory tract. In recent decades, scientific studies have investigated its antiviral properties. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that andrographolide exhibits inhibitory activity against a range of viruses, including influenza A, hepatitis B and C, dengue virus, and even SARS-CoV-2. Proposed mechanisms include inhibition of viral entry, suppression of viral replication, and modulation of host immune responses.

Clinical evidence remains limited but is growing. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have found that Andrographis paniculata extracts can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms in upper respiratory tract infections, which are often viral in origin. However, most clinical studies use whole plant extracts rather than isolated andrographolide, and outcomes often measure symptom improvement rather than direct antiviral effects. A 2017 systematic review concluded that the herb is more effective than placebo for relieving acute respiratory infection symptoms, with a favorable safety profile.

Despite promising preclinical data and some supportive clinical trials, the overall quality of evidence is moderate (rated 3/5) due to heterogeneity in study designs and endpoints, and a need for more robust, well-controlled studies focusing on specific viral infections and isolating andrographolide as the active compound.

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