Habitat

• Andrographis enjoys moist shady locations. It is a hardy plant and can be found growing in all soil types including dry and wet regions, hillsides, coastal areas and fertile and poor soil conditions. Originally a native plant in India and Sri Lanka, it is cultivated in other hot or tropical areas, including Malaysia, the West Indies, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and West Africa.
  
  

Description

• Clusters of small oblong white flowers that have mauve, rose or purple spots on the petals may be found on the plant. Seeds are yellow-brown in color. Leaves are elongated, smooth and dark green and the plant grows to 12 to 43 inches high. Andrographis is harvested when in full bloom.
  
  

Traditional Medicine

• Local communities call andrographis a variety of names, including "King of Bitters" and "Bile of the Earth" because its taste is so unpleasant. The plant's healing properties are said to boost the immune system and leaves and roots are commonly used to treat snake bites, malaria, liver disorders, colds, coughs, bronchitis, skin diseases and sore throats.
  
  

Cancer and HIV

• Research at the University of California suggests that andrographis could play an important part in fighting HIV as its studies have shown that the plant may be used as a natural medicine to inhibit the spread of infection. Other studies have shown that it is effective in killing cancer cells.
  
  

"Indian Echinacea"

• In recent years North America and Scandinavia have seen a rise in sales of andrographis in health food shops, where it is sold as a homeopathic remedy for colds. Known as "Indian Echinacea," it is taken orally as a supplement and significantly improves symptoms of the common cold, according to the University of Wisconsin.