Family Name: Acanthaceae
Botanical Name(s): Andrographis Paniculata
Popular Name(s): Creat, Kariyat, Indian Echinacea
Parts Used: Whole plant, leaves
Habitat: Cultivated throughout India
Description: Andrographis Paniculata is a traditional Indian herb used historically as support for a healthy immune system. It has often been called "Indian Echinacea". The main compound found in Andrographis is a diterpene lactone called andrographilide B.
Uses: Andrographis has been found to be an effective anti-biotic, anti-viral, and anti-parasitic and immune system stimulant. It is used in viral hepatitis, children's bowel complaints, gastric acidity, liver congestion and flatulence. It is being increasingly used as treatment for cold. Reasonably good evidence tells us that it can reduce the severity of cold symptoms. It may also help prevent colds.