Andrographis is an herbal medicine grown the moist, shady areas of India, China and throughout Southeast Asia. It is commonly referred to as 'Indian Echinacea' and is a popular Ayervedic and Chinese household remedy for the common cold,Flu & Sinusitis,Digestive problems,Cardiovascular,Anti-tumor,Clinical Applications. Andrographis and its various components have demonstrated a variety of effects in the body. Aspects stimulate the general immune activities, others inhibit the body's inflammatory mechanism and still others demonstrate not only anti-microbial abilities, but also are instrumental in killing certain tumor cells. Studies have also indicated that the active chemical, Andrographolide, helps to stop the clumping of blood platelets which is the clotting process that can lead to heart attacks. It also has a major effect activating the general defense functions of the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies as well as non-specific immune responses such as increased macrophage phagocytosis, rather than by any direct anti-microbial activity. Several studies have shown andrographis to be effective at fighting symptoms and shortening the duration of colds and flu – and it may even be effective at preventing these illnesses altogether. Andrographis has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, and has been shown to reduce fevers and promote immune response. No side effects have been established in human studies, but Pregnant women or those trying to conceive should avoid Andrographis.It is also not recommended for nursing women, or small children, until further studies have been performed. (As with any new medication, natural or otherwise, it is best to consult your physician before adding andrographis to your herbal supplement regimen.) Andrographis extracts have also been shown to kill cancer cells, and some studies have implied that it may be as effective as tamoxifen, the commonly used drug for preventing regrowth of breast cancer cells. Andrographis has been shown to be active against the HIV virus. It appears to prevent the virus from infecting healthy T-cells and it also appears to fight the HIV virus in cells that have already been taken over. It appears to prevent multiplication of the virus. Andrographis can be found at many health food stores, most commonly in capsule form. The little time you spend tracking down this promising herbal supplement might pay off handsomely when cold season comes around – and you find yourself healthy and sniffle-free.

Andrographis recipes