Geography

• This plant grows in many areas including India, southeastern Asia, Indonesia and Pakistan but is broadly cultivated in Thailand, the East and West Indies, Mauritius and Thailand.
  
  

Identification

• Andrographis paniculata is an annual herb whose branches stand from 1 1/2 feet to 3 feet high.
  
  

Benefits

• Andrographis paniculata has been touted as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial agent, blood clot preventative and some people claim it can fight and kill cancer cells. It is also used as a digestive aid, expectorant, sedative and can be used to combat parasites.
  
  

Features

• This herb is considered to be a "cold property" herb and is often used to rid the body of fevers and toxins.
  
  

Considerations

• Occasional side effects are infertility, heart palpitations and dizziness. Some may be allergic and have a more pronounced reaction. Women who are pregnant should avoid this herb as it has abortifacient properties.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Scandinavian countries use the bitter herb in formulas to prevent and treat common colds.