Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Green chiretta (Andrographis paniculata) has a longstanding history in traditional medicine systems across Asia, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it has been used to treat febrile illnesses, respiratory infections, and general immune support. In recent decades, scientific research has increasingly focused on its potential for managing upper respiratory tract infections, including influenza.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated standardized extracts of Andrographis paniculata, particularly Andrographis-containing products like Kan Jang, for their effectiveness in reducing symptoms of acute respiratory tract infections. These studies generally report modest reductions in the severity and duration of symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and fever compared to placebo. The primary active constituent, andrographolide, is thought to exert antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. In vitro studies have shown andrographolide can inhibit replication of influenza viruses and modulate immune responses, suggesting a plausible biological mechanism for its effects.

However, high-quality clinical data specifically targeting laboratory-confirmed influenza are limited. Most human studies group influenza with other viral respiratory illnesses, so while the evidence is suggestive, it is not conclusive for influenza alone. Thus, while green chiretta's use for supporting influenza has some scientific basis, more robust and targeted clinical trials are needed to firmly establish its efficacy for this specific condition.

More about green chiretta
More about Influenza

Other ingredients used for Influenza

Other health conditions supported by green chiretta

Products containing green chiretta

Nature's Sunshine Blood Sugar Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine IF Relief
Nature's Sunshine Seasonal Defense