Andrographis
Useful mainly for shortening and easing common cold symptoms when started early.
Quick decision guide
May help most
shortening and easing common cold symptoms when started early
Common dosing range
200–1200 mg standardized extract/day
When to expect effects
Days
Watch out for
avoid in pregnancy; may add to bleeding-drug effects
What is it
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a herbaceous plant used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, particularly for cold and flu symptoms. The aerial parts contain andrographolides, the main active compounds.
Is it worth it for you?
Use this as a quick fit check, not a diagnosis.
Worth considering if…
Probably skip if…
Evidence at a glance
| Goal | Effect | Best fit | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
common cold and upper respiratory infection Good Evidence | Meaningful reduction in symptom severity and duration | adults starting treatment early in an acute respiratory infection | Days |
common cold and upper respiratory infection
- Effect
- Meaningful reduction in symptom severity and duration
- Best fit
- adults starting treatment early in an acute respiratory infection
- Time
- Days
Evidence for 1 use
AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.
common cold and upper respiratory infection
Supplement benefitMeta-analyses of randomized controlled trials indicate andrographis reduces the severity and duration of common cold symptoms, particularly cough and sore throat, when started early. Andrographolides modulate inflammatory pathways and have antiviral activity in laboratory studies. Trials are typically short (5–7 days) and methodological quality varies, but the direction of effect is consistent.
Bottom line: One of the better-evidenced botanicals for easing acute cold symptoms when taken early.
How it works
How to take it
What to track
2 commercial forms
Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.
Standardized extract (KalmCold, ParActin)
Most-studied form; preferred for clinical applications.
Standardized to 4-6% andrographolides for consistent dosing.
Whole herb powder
Traditional form; less consistent dosing.
Variable andrographolide content.
Safety
Know the common side effects, key cautions, and who should avoid it.
Common side effects
Serious risks
rare allergic reactions
rare elevated liver enzymes
Who should avoid it
- pregnant people
- people trying to conceive
- those with autoimmune conditions or on immunosuppressants (consult clinician)
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
Avoid in pregnancy due to traditional uterotonic and fertility concerns.
Interactions
may enhance bleeding risk
may add to blood-pressure lowering
theoretical immune-stimulating interaction
Choosing a product
What to look for on the label — and what to be skeptical of.
Look for…
Be skeptical of…
Frequently asked questions
When should I take andrographis for a cold?⌄
Evidence is strongest when started within the first 24-72 hours of cold symptoms. Beyond that window, benefits may be smaller.
Can I take andrographis every day?⌄
Most studies use it short-term (5-7 days for acute infections). Daily long-term use has less safety data and is generally not recommended without medical guidance.
References by claim
Track Andrographis with Pilora
Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.
Coming to App StoreDisclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.