Quick Facts

Dr. Marty Ross, MD
Dr. Ross's Expert Review
Andrographis paniculata is one of the core herbs in Stephen Buhner’s herbal protocol. In that tradition it is used for immune support and microbial balance. I carry this Montana Farmacy tincture because it is handcrafted in small batches at a traditional 1:5 ratio, using organic cane alcohol and water. That ratio matters to me. It is the strength Buhner’s dosing assumptions are built around.
What Andrographis May Do
Andrographis has a long history in traditional medicine for immune support. Modern research points to immunomodulating and antimicrobial properties in lab and early clinical work. I will be candid here: laboratory testing shows andrographis has limited direct action against Borrelia, the Lyme germ. Its role in a regimen is immune support, not germ killing on its own. I say that openly, because you deserve the honest picture.
Dosing
The suggested dose is 1 dropper 1 to 3 times a day. If you are new to this herb, start low and work up. Some people react strongly to andrographis, and a small number develop hives or other allergic-type reactions. If that happens, stop it and talk to your physician.
Cautions
Do not use during pregnancy. Andrographis may interact with isoniazid and may change how quickly your body clears theophylline, so review your medications with your physician before starting. For the best directions for your situation, discuss this product with your physician or healthcare provider.
How I Use It in My Practice
In my practice I use andrographis as part of the Buhner herbal tradition, mainly for its immune support role. It is not a stand-alone germ killer in my book; the lab science does not support that for Borrelia. So I combine it with other herbs like Japanese knotweed and cat’s claw, and I adjust the dose to the person. A sensitive patient may start with a few drops twice a day instead of a full dropper. I watch for hives or flu-type reactions, which usually settle with a lower dose or stopping the herb. I avoid it entirely in pregnancy and in anyone on isoniazid or theophylline.
The Research, in Dr. Ross's Words
Andrographis paniculata has a growing research base. A 2024 systematic review following PRISMA guidelines reviewed 16 studies on andrographolide and confirmed antimicrobial properties, including antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiprotozoal activity in lab and animal work (PMID 39682008). Reviews also describe antiviral mechanisms, including effects on virus entry and replication (PMID 33610706), and a randomized trial of an andrographis spray in acute pharyngitis showed symptom benefit (PMID 37821383). Not everything is positive: a double-blinded randomized trial found 180 mg a day for 5 days did not change COVID-19 progression, though it shortened the duration of smell loss (PMID 39005565). I value that kind of honest, mixed result.
Two cautions for the Lyme reader. Much of this research is on other infections and lab models, not on tick-borne illness in humans. And laboratory testing reviewed on this site shows andrographis has weak direct action against Borrelia. So the case for this herb rests on immune support, which mechanistic reviews support through immunomodulation (PMID 37765014), not on direct germ killing. It is a useful herb with real but bounded science behind it.
References
Supplement Facts
| Amount Per Serving | Amount | |
|---|---|---|
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) | 140 mg | |







