Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bitter Grass (most commonly referring to Andrographis paniculata, also known as "King of Bitters") has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Southeast Asian herbalism. It is traditionally used to support the body during colds, especially when fever is present. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys frequently cite Andrographis as a "cooling" herb used to "clear heat" and reduce feverish symptoms, making it a popular remedy for upper respiratory tract infections in these traditions.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Andrographis for treating colds have yielded some supportive evidence, particularly regarding symptom relief and reduction in the duration of colds. However, much of the evidence remains inconclusive or of moderate quality, and the specific use of "bitter grass" as a fever reducer during colds is still primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation. Systematic reviews, such as those published in the Cochrane Database, note that while Andrographis may modestly improve cold symptoms, the quality and consistency of the research are not strong enough for unequivocal endorsement. Thus, the justification for its use is still primarily based on tradition, with scientific support remaining preliminary.

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