Evidence supporting the use of: Andrographis
For the body system: Lymphatics
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for its purported benefits on the lymphatic system, though this use is less prominent than its application for respiratory and immune health. Historically, it has been considered a “blood purifier” and a herb to support detoxification, which can be related to lymphatic functions in traditional medical systems. The lymphatic system's role in removing waste and supporting immune responses aligns with these traditional concepts.
However, there is limited direct scientific evidence specifically linking Andrographis to enhanced lymphatic function or lymphatic drainage. Most modern research focuses on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral properties, particularly for upper respiratory tract infections. Some animal studies and in vitro research suggest that Andrographis may have general anti-inflammatory effects, which could theoretically influence lymphatic health, but these are indirect.
In summary, while Andrographis has a traditional basis for supporting lymphatic health—mainly as a detoxifying or “blood cleansing” herb—scientific validation for direct lymphatic support is minimal. Its use for this purpose is primarily rooted in historical practice rather than robust clinical evidence.
Other ingredients that support Lymphatics
alfalfaastragalus
bayberry
blackberry
bupleurum falcatum
burdock
cat's claw
chamomile
citrus oil
citrus pectin
turmeric
dandelion
dyer’s woad root
echinacea purpurea
fruit blend (proprietary)
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
gotu kola
onion
green tea
horse chestnut
lemon
licorice root
maitake mushroom
marshmallow
nettle
oregon grape
parsley
reishi mushroom
rosemary
scrophularia root
serratiopeptidase
specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs)
water
watercress
watermelon
sarsaparilla
red clover
jiaogulan
boneset
mullein
typhonium
lobelia
neem tree
punarnava
rubia cordifolia
lingzhi
yarrow
pau d'arco
elecampane
ganoderma
sheep's sorrel
polyporus
cleavers
stillingia
noni
herbal blend (proprietary)
AHCC
Ajuga
Aescin
Andrographis
Asteracea
Alkylglycerols
Blue Flag
Black-Eyed Susan
Brassica
berry
Bee products
Bupleurum
Bittersweet
Coumarin
Calendula
Coriolus mushroom
Codonopsis
Citrus
Cruciferous
Chinese Ligustrum berry
cypress
Chaparral
Cowslip
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cytokines
Castor Oil
Culvers Root
Deerbrush
Echinacea
Escin
Other body systems supported by Andrographis
Digestive SystemGastrointestinal Tract
Immune System
Intestinal System
Liver
Lungs
Lymphatics
Respiratory System
Stomach