2023, Vol. 4, Issue 2, Part B

The Acanthaceae family includes the bitter plant Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F.) Wall. Ex. Nees, widely known as Kalmegh or the "King of Bitters." It is native to India and Sri Lanka and is a tropical south-east Asian herb. One of the most widely utilised potential therapeutic plants in the world is Andrographis paniculata. This plant is traditionally used as an antioxidant, a liver and cardiovascular health tonic, and a remedy for the common cold, diarrhoea, fever from various infectious causes, and jaundice. Additionally, it is employed as a contraceptive and to treat sexual dysfunctions.

According to pharmacological and clinical investigations, Andrographis paniculata exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiallergenic, immunostimulatory, antiviral, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular, and other effects. The presence of active compounds like andrographolide, neoandrographolide, and kalmeghnin, which are derivatives of diterpenoids, is what gives this plant its medical significance. This review outlines the most recent scientific results and identifies areas in need of additional study.