Andrographolide

PhytochemicalDiterpene lactone

What is it

Andrographolide is a diterpene lactone, the main active compound in Andrographis paniculata. It is responsible for most of the herb's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-modulating effects in laboratory studies.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Upper respiratory infections

Strong Evidence

Andrographolide-standardized extracts have strong meta-analytic support for reducing duration and severity of common cold and similar infections.

Inflammation / autoimmune (preliminary)

Limited Evidence

Small trials and laboratory studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis, but evidence is limited.

How it works

Andrographolide inhibits NF-kB activation, modulating production of inflammatory cytokines. It has direct antiviral effects on several respiratory viruses in cell models and may stimulate immune cell function. It also affects multiple signaling pathways involved in cancer cell proliferation in laboratory studies. In supplements, the focus is usually on the upper respiratory infection benefits of standardized andrographis extracts (containing andrographolide). Isolated andrographolide has been studied for various inflammatory conditions, but most clinical evidence relates to the whole-herb extract.

Dosage

Whole-herb extracts standardized to 4-6% andrographolide are dosed at 200-1200 mg daily for upper respiratory infection. Isolated andrographolide doses are not well-standardized in supplements.

When and how to take it

WHEN: At onset of cold/flu symptoms; 2-3 times daily during acute use. HOW: With water; food may reduce nausea.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Standardized andrographis extract

Most common commercial form.

Andrographolide content is the key marker; varies by extract.

Safety

Generally well tolerated short-term. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache. Rare reports of allergic reactions, elevated liver enzymes, and male fertility concerns in animal studies.

Who should be cautious

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use cautiously with autoimmune disease, bleeding disorders, and before surgery. Discuss with a clinician if on prescription medications.

Interactions

May enhance anticoagulant and antiplatelet effects. Possible additive lowering of blood pressure with antihypertensives. Theoretical interaction with immunosuppressants.

Frequently asked questions

Is andrographolide a drug?⌄

In some countries, andrographis extracts are used as registered traditional medicines. In the US, andrographolide is sold as a dietary supplement ingredient, not as a drug.

References

Andrographolide on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Andrographolide on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Andrographolide (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Andrographolide with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: 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.