Immune Healing Support

Andrographis: Benefits, Dosage & What the Science Says

Andrographis paniculata, also called Chuan Xin Lian, has been studied mainly for short-term symptoms of uncomplicated respiratory infections. A systematic review found possible relief for cough and sore throat, but the studies used different products and were generally poor in quality. That evidence does not show that Andrographis treats Lyme disease or Borrelia infection. The first label check is the allergy warning because Andrographis can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Last reviewed: Emerging evidence Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees
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Botanical field plate of Andrographis
Botanical plate from NaturalHerbLibrary.com

Decision snapshot

What matters before you buy

Evidence
Emerging
Studied dose
There is no single evidence-based dose that fits every Andrographis product. Studies used different plant preparations, extract strengths, and combinations. Follow the ex…
Quality marker
Look for the full botanical name, Andrographis paniculata. Check the plant part, extract ratio, and andrographolide amount per serving. Read the allergy warning before the first dose. Prefer…
Safety check
Andrographis can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Stop taking it and seek emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling, collapse, or another severe reaction. Stomach…

What Is Andrographis?

Bitter-leaf extract with limited evidence for short-term respiratory symptom relief and a serious allergy warning

Evidence-Based Benefits

  • Possible short-term relief of cough and sore throat in limited studies
  • A clear label check for plant part, extract strength, and andrographolide content
  • A safety check before use because a severe allergic reaction can happen

Recommended Dosage

There is no single evidence-based dose that fits every Andrographis product. Studies used different plant preparations, extract strengths, and combinations. Follow the exact product label and ask a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use. Do not use high-dose Lyme protocols from this page because the cited human research does not support Andrographis as a Lyme disease treatment.

Safety, Side Effects & Interactions

Andrographis can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Stop taking it and seek emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling, collapse, or another severe reaction. Stomach upset and skin reactions are also reported. Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration removed Andrographis from its listed medicines framework in 2026 because it found that the severe allergy risk could not be managed well enough in that lower-risk system. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, giving it to a child, taking medicine, or managing a health condition.

How to Choose a Quality Andrographis

Look for the full botanical name, Andrographis paniculata. Check the plant part, extract ratio, and andrographolide amount per serving. Read the allergy warning before the first dose. Prefer a product with independent identity and contaminant testing.

Traditional Use

Traditional Chinese Medicine
穿心莲 Chuan Xin Lian
clears heat and resolves toxicity dries dampness reduces swelling cools the Blood clears Lung and throat heat

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References

  1. Andrographis paniculata for symptomatic relief of acute respiratory tract infections: systematic review and meta-analysis - PMID:28783743
  2. Safety of Andrographis paniculata: systematic review and meta-analysis - PMID:33372366
  3. Andrographis and anaphylaxis: updated safety review and supplementary report - TGA:2026
  4. Andrographis removed from the listed medicines framework because of allergy risk - TGA:2026-09
  5. European Medicines Agency assessment of Andrographidis paniculatae folium - EMA:HMPC/320433/2012

Last reviewed: October 17, 2026. For informational purposes only. See full disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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