Juicing For Health - Andrographis Paniculata
Name
Andrographis Paniculata also known as Indian Echinacea, Maha-tita, Kalmegh which means "king of bitters".
Parts Used
Whole Plant Leaves and Flowers.
Information
Andrographis paniculata is a herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae, native to India and Sri Lanka.
Andrographis also known as the "king of bitters" due to its extremely bitter taste is a very prized medicinal herb which has been used mainly in ayurvedic and traditional chinese medicine.
Andrographis was traditionally used to treat fevers, respiratory tract infections, to support cardiovascular health, gastrointestinal problems, liver health, immune system enhancement and cold/flu.
Research has shown that andrographis has immune boosting effects, anti-bacterial/viral properties, prevents blood clots, the bitter element helps cleanse the liver and keep digestion efficient and potent anti-inflammatory activity.
Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Anti-Viral
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular Health
- Liver/Gallbladder Health
- Immune Support
Andrographis has been shown to contain numerous compounds which posess strong anti-inflammatory properties. Scientists believe it may be of benefit to sufferers of arthritis.
The herb has demostrated anti-viral activity against HIV and AID's. Andrographis helps prevent the virus from infecting healthy cells and inhibiting it from spreading, other studies have shown it can still fight HIV in cells even after infected. Certain compounds within andrographis such as andrographolide have shown viricidal activity against herpes simplex 1 virus.
The herb also showed superior to placebo effects in alleviating and possibly preventing the upper respiratory tract infections. Used traditionally and most commonly known for its benefits against colds and flu.
Andrographis was found to stimulate the activity of certain cancer-fighting cells called cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Results showed that it was effective against stomach, skin, prostate and breast cancers. With its strong anti-viral properties and some cancers having viral origin this could be another reason why its effective.
Research has found that certain ingredients in the plant namely andrographolide and didehydroandrographolide help prevent premature clotting of the blood by stopping platelets from sticking together.
Commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine in treating liver disorders, improving gallbladder function and increasing bile flow. Andrographis has also been found to be equally as effective as silymarin(milk thistles active compound) in protecting the liver. Beneficial in the treatment of hepatitis.
Andrographis increases the amount of immune-protective chemicals such as interleukin-2 and gamma-interferon which help protect against infections and cancer.
Side Effects/Precautions
Andrographis appears to be a pretty safe herb only minor side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash, headache and runny nose.
Animal research suggests that andrographis might interfere with reproduction, but this hasn’t been shown in people. Nevertheless, if you are having trouble fathering a child or getting pregnant, it’s best not to use andrographis.
As with most herbs i dont recommend using whilst pregnant or breast-feeding just incase.
Buying Information
Good product sources can be purchased from the links below.
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