Andrographis
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The leaves of Andrographis paniculata, an annual herb, were commonly used in Indian folk medicine and Ayurveda for centuries. The herb is also used in Chinese and Thai herbal medicine, where it is known for its "bitter" properties as a treatment for digestive problems. Today, this herb is popularly used in Scandinavia to treat upper respiratory infectionInvasion by organisms that may be harmful, for example bacteria or parasites. (URI) and the fluA viral infection affecting the respiratory system..
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These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. |
Grade* |
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Upper respiratory tractThe parts of the body that are involved in respiration. The respiratory tract includes the nasal passages, throat (pharynx), windpipe (trachea), bronchi and lungs. infectionInvasion by organisms that may be harmful, for example bacteria or parasites.: treatment (URI) |
A |
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Familial Mediterranean fever |
C |
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Flu (influenzaA viral infection affecting the respiratory system.) |
C |
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Upper respiratory tractThe parts of the body that are involved in respiration. The respiratory tract includes the nasal passages, throat (pharynx), windpipe (trachea), bronchi and lungs. infectionInvasion by organisms that may be harmful, for example bacteria or parasites.: prevention |
C |
*Key to grades:
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work);
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).
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Three cases of anaphylactic reactions, including one case of shock, have been reported to the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for International Drug Monitoring as of June 2003. Avoid with infertility or patients actively trying to conceive. Use cautiously with diabetes, bleeding disorders, and high or low bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. pressure. Use cautiously with bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. sugar-altering medications, warfarin or other bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. thinning medications, and bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. pressure-altering medications. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
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"Blocked nose," chest pain, decreased sperm A mature male sex cell. (infertility), diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, enlarged lymph glands, fatigue, headache, increased risk of bleeding, lowered bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. pressure, lowered bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. sugar, nasal discharge, nausea, stomachache, vomiting.
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Allergy medications, bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. thinners, bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. sugar-altering medications, insulinA hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas that acts to lower blood glucose levels., blood pressure medications, anti-inflammatoryAny drug that suppresses inflammation agents, anticancer agents, antiviralA substance that acts against viruses, for example and antiviral drug. agents, fertility agents, drugs that alter the immune systemThe organs specialised to fight infection., and herbs and supplements with similar effects.
Children (younger than 18 years):
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There is limited research in children. In one study, children between ages 4-11, a dose of two tablets three times daily (approximately 30 milligrams daily of andrographolide and deoxyandrographolide) was well-tolerated for 10 days.
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Ayurvedic formulas: In India, leaves and juice are mixed with cardamom, clove and cinnamon, and are used for colic and other stomach problems in infants.
Licensed by Natural Standard.
Copyright © 2012 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com) Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The above monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.