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Andrographis, popularly known as Kalmegh, is used in Ayurveda to improve the immune system. It is quite bitter due to which it is also monikered as ‘King of Bitters’. Andrographis Extract is made from leaves and roots of its plant known by the same name. This plant is naturally found in the wild habitats of tropical countries like India and Sri Lanka. However, many other Asian countries also cultivate it as a farming practice due to its rich medicinal benefits.

Andrographis for Immunity

While this plant finds its uses across Ayurveda and traditional Chinese treatments, it has also caught the attention of modern medicine and touted as the next big thing as an immunity booster. Various studies have been undertaken to prove its benefits for the immune system.

Andrographis contains andrographolide compounds that have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties which can be useful to treat and even prevent the common cold, flu, sore throat allergies, and sinusitis. It has dry qualities that can give relief from thick phlegm which often gets accumulated in the head, throat, and chest due to a higher level of ‘Kapha’ and ‘Pitta’ in the body. It balances both ‘Kapha’ and ‘Pitta’, thereby thwarting the influenza virus from binding to the body cells and bringing the body to normal temperature. Hence, this herb is also used to treat fever and associated body aches because it acts as an astringent, painkiller, and bacteria-killing agent.

Andrographis for Other Ailments

Andrographis can provide several other health benefits in the treatment of:

• Liver:

Andrographis has hepato-protective and hemato-stimulative properties that prevent liver cells from getting damaged due to medicines or free radicals. It stimulates the production of bile and helps in treating jaundice. It also cleanses toxins from the liver and regenerates liver cells.

• Digestion:

Andrographis can take care of digestion-related disorders such as stomach pain, diarrhea, intestinal gas, and constipation. It can also alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

• Arthritis:

Since Andrographis contains anti-inflammatory properties, it also gives relief in the symptoms of arthritis by reducing the swelling and stiffness in joints.

When these diseases are taken care of, the immune system of your body not only becomes stronger but it also has to work less hard unnecessarily.

Consumption of Andrographis

Andrographis is recommended for adults, albeit only after due consultation with your health practitioner. You can safely consume Andrographis in the form supplements – capsules for example. Make sure that the supplements are natural, vegan, gluten-free, and Non-GMO to eliminate side effects. You can take the capsule with a glass of water. Alternatively, you can pour the contents of the capsule in a smoothie/drink or sprinkle it over salad.

Your immune system is the first and last line of defense for your body. Regular and right usage of Andrographis can boost your immune system.

Also Read: Ashwagandha Extract: Energiser And Stress Reliever