A Winter Season Superpower
Not long ago we noticed more of our customers asking for the herb Andrographis when they got sick. We had it on the shelves, but we admit we didn’t know a lot about it. So we’ve investigated. We’re glad we did!
Andrographis paniculata has a long history of use in traditional medicine in both India and China, and at least two decades of use in modern Sweden. It was/is a favorite for fighting an array of conditions such as infections, cancer, diabetes, bronchitis, influenza, respiratory infections and more. There’s good reason. Modern science shows Andrographis is a powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent. Sometimes called The King of Bitters, it also is known for improving digestion and liver function.
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes studies support the use of Andrographis primarily in colds & flu, but also for HIV, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis.
Dr. Aviva Romm (medical doctor, herbalist & midwife) mentions the herb as one of her top choices for an antibiotic alternative. She says it is “effective for the prevention and treatment of colds, bronchitis, viral sore throat and sinus infections.” She also notes it’s not recommended during pregnancy but can be used while breastfeeding. And she says it’s safe for children.
The main indications to use Andrographis, according to drnibber.com, are cold and flu, boosting immunity, infections in the GI tract, diarrhea and urinary tract infections. When it comes to cold and flu, the blog reports that studies show Andrographis can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, reduce frequency of infection, and provide noticeable improvements in just three days.
No wonder people have been asking for this herb! Thanks to our savvy customers, we now have three products containing this winter season superpower: Solaray Andrographis, Nature’s Plus Tri-Immune (Andrographis, ARA-Larix & Olive Leaf), and Herb’s Etc. Immune Alert (Andrographis, Echinacea, Olive Leaf, Elderberry & Spilanthes). Should you feel a cold coming on, you might want one of these on your medicine shelf!
If you want to learn more, click Michigan Medicine, NIH, & RA.
