Andrographolide, a diterpenoid lactone derived from the plant Andrographis paniculata, has been traditionally used in Asian medicine for various ailments, including liver (hepatic) conditions. Scientifically, several preclinical studies and limited clinical evidence suggest that andrographolide possesses hepatoprotective properties.

Animal studies have shown that andrographolide can reduce liver damage induced by toxins such as carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol, likely due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects. Mechanistically, andrographolide has been observed to lower hepatic enzyme levels (e.g., ALT, AST) in animal models and to inhibit pathways involved in liver inflammation and fibrosis. Some in vitro studies also suggest it can modulate detoxification enzymes and protect hepatocytes from oxidative stress.

However, human clinical trials are limited. A small number of clinical studies have reported improvements in liver function tests in patients with liver disorders, but these trials are often of low methodological quality and have small sample sizes. Overall, while there is moderate scientific support from preclinical models and some early human data, more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in supporting hepatic function in humans.