Andrographis paniculata (Acanthaceae) Kalmegh, King of Bitters

1. Taxonomic insights

Species: Andrographis paniculata

Family: Acanthaceae

Genus: Andrographis

The Acanthaceae family is rich in herbs with significant therapeutic value for respiratory, hepatic, and inflammatory conditions, often characterized by their bitter taste.

Related Herbs from the same family:

• Justicia adhatoda (Vasa/Adhatoda): A premier bronchial antispasmodic and expectorant used for cough, asthma, and respiratory congestion.

• Lepidagathis decumbens: A traditional herb used for fever, liver disorders, and inflammation, as detailed in a previous monograph.

2. Common Names:

Scientific Name: Andrographis paniculata | English: King of Bitters, Green Chiretta | Sanskrit: Bhunimba, Kalmegha, Yavatikta | Hindi: Kalmegh, Kirayat | Tamil: Nilavembu, Siriyanangai | Telugu: Nelavemu | Kannada: Nelaberu | Malayalam: Kiriyattu, Nelavepu | Marathi: Oli-kiryata, Kalpa | Bengali: Kalmegh | Sinhala: Heen Bin Kohomba | Chinese: Chuān Xīn Lián (穿心莲) | Thai: Fa Thalai Chon |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antipyretic (fever-reducing), Hepatoprotective (liver protective), Immunomodulatory, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antiviral, Antibacterial, Bitter Tonic (Deepana-Pachana), Choleretic (promotes bile flow), Antidiarrheal.

Medicinal Parts:The whole plant, particularly the aerial parts (leaves and stems), is used medicinally.

• Whole Plant/Aerial Parts: Used for powders, decoctions, and standardized extracts.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Diterpene Lactones (Andrographolide, Deoxyandrographolide, Neoandrographolide): These are the primary bioactive compounds. Andrographolide is the major constituent, known for its potent Anti-inflammatory, Immunomodulatory (stimulates antibody production and cell-mediated immunity), Antiviral, and Hepatoprotective actions.

Flavonoids: Provide supportive Antioxidant activity, helping to neutralize free radicals generated during infection and inflammation.

Xanthones: Contribute to the plant's overall Antioxidant and potential Antimalarial properties.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Jwara (Fever) - Especially Santata Jwara (Chronic Fevers)

Formulation: Nilavembu Kudineer (a classical Tamil Siddha decoction) or simple plant decoction.

Preparation & Use: It is the key ingredient in Nilavembu Kudineer, a famed Siddha formulation used to treat dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and common viral fevers. A decoction of the whole plant is a household remedy for fever.

Reasoning: Its potent antipyretic action helps reduce high body temperature, while its immunomodulatory properties help the body fight off the underlying infection.

Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders) & Kamala (Jaundice)

Formulation: Plant juice, powder (churna), or decoction.

Preparation & Use: The fresh juice of the plant or its powder mixed with honey is a traditional remedy for jaundice, hepatitis, and general liver detoxification. It is a classic Rakta Shodhaka (blood purifier).

Reasoning: Andrographolide protects liver cells from toxins (hepatoprotective), stimulates bile flow (choleretic), and helps in the regeneration of liver tissue.

Agnimandya (Loss of Appetite) & Atisara (Diarrhea)

Formulation: Powder taken before meals.

Preparation & Use: Due to its intense bitterness, it is an excellent Deepana (appetite stimulant). Its antimicrobial and astringent properties make it effective in treating infectious diarrhea and dysentery.

Reasoning: The bitter principle stimulates digestive secretions. Its antimicrobial action helps eliminate gut pathogens causing diarrhea.

Kasa (Cough) & Shwasa (Respiratory Distress)

Formulation: Decoction with honey or tulsi.

Preparation & Use: A decoction of Kalmegh is used for upper respiratory tract infections, sore throat, and cough due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

Reasoning: Andrographolide reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract and helps modulate the immune response against pathogens.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

It is not a culinary herb due to its intense bitterness. Its use is strictly medicinal.

Classic Fever Decoction (Nilavembu Kashayam)

Purpose: To reduce fever and body aches during seasonal flu or viral infections.

Preparation & Use:

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of dried Andrographis herb (aerial parts).

• Boil in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.

• Strain and drink 30 ml of this bitter decoction twice a day. Honey or a pinch of ginger powder can be added to mask the bitterness.

Liver Tonic Powder

Purpose: To support liver function and as a general blood purifier.

Preparation & Use:

• Take 500 mg to 1 gram of dried Andrographis powder.

• Mix with 1 teaspoon of honey or Aloe vera gel.

• Consume once or twice a day, 15 minutes before a meal.

7. Disclaimer:

Andrographis paniculata is a potent medicinal herb. Its intense bitterness can cause gastric irritation or nausea in some individuals. Due to its strong immunostimulant action, it is generally contraindicated in autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus) and for those taking immunosuppressant drugs (e.g., after organ transplant). It should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential abortifacient effects and used with caution in individuals with low blood pressure or bleeding disorders. Consultation with an Ayurvedic or healthcare practitioner is essential for determining appropriate dosage and duration. This information is for educational purposes only.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

• Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

• Siddha Materia Medica (for formulations like Nilavembu Kudineer)

• The Yoga of Herbs by Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasant Lad

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutki)

• Species: Picrorhiza kurroa | Family: Plantaginaceae | Genus: Picrorhiza

• Similarities: Both are intensely bitter, hepatoprotective, and antipyretic herbs used as premier remedies for liver disorders and chronic fevers in Ayurveda. They are often compared and sometimes used in combination for enhanced effect.

2. Swertia chirata (Chirayata)

• Species: Swertia chirata | Family: Gentianaceae | Genus: Swertia

• Similarities: Another "King of Bitters," Chirayata shares the bitter tonic, antipyretic, and hepatoprotective profile. It is traditionally used for malaria, fever, and digestive issues, making it a close functional analogue to Kalmegh.

3. Eclipta alba (Bhringraj)

• Species: Eclipta alba | Family: Asteraceae | Genus: Eclipta

• Similarities: Both are renowned hepatoprotective and Rakta Shodhaka (blood-purifying) herbs used extensively in liver tonic formulations and for skin health. While Bhringraj is also a hair tonic, Kalmegh is more specific for fever.

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