Andrographis
One of the few supplements that actually delivers. Proven to support immune support with real clinical backing.
🏆
Verdict
8/10 Solid
🎓
Evidence
Grade B / 100+ Studies
Norans Kepals, Independent Researcher & Supplement Expert
March 1, 2026
The No-BS Summary
8 things. 60 seconds. Everything you need.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
⚡
1
WHAT IT DOES
May provide immune support and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
🏆
2
DOES IT WORK?
Good pick. Strong clinical evidence for reducing cold and flu severity and duration; multiple RCTs support its immune-enhancing andrographolide content. Used in Scandinavian medicine.
💊
3
HOW MUCH TO TAKE
200mg of extract, standardized to 10% andrographolides
💰
4
COST
Mid-range. $35-50/month. Standard for most people.
⏱️
5
FIRST 24 HOURS
Don't expect miracles on day one. It's building in your system.
📈
6
AFTER A FEW WEEKS
Most people notice something by week 2-3.
🛡️
7
SAFETY
Few things to check: pregnancy, autoimmune disorders. Worth mentioning to your doc.
✨
8
HOW IT FEELS
Users may experience a subtle boost in overall wellness. Some report reduced cold symptoms if taken at the onset of illness.
2The Breakdown
Quick Answers
Dose-Response Curve
How effective is andrographis at different doses? Here's what the research shows.
Effectiveness %
0
25
50
75
100
MIN 200mg
SWEET SPOT 600mg
PLATEAU 1.2g
Dose (mg)
0-33%
Sub-therapeutic
<200mg
33-80%
Effective
200mg-600mg
~80%
Optimal
600mg
80%
Diminishing
>1.2g
Moderate confidenceBased on clinical data + estimates
Source: Coon & Ernst Planta Med 2004; Saxena et al. J Clin Pharm Ther 2010Bottom line: Most research uses 600mg daily. Below 200mg, you're probably wasting money. Above 1.2g, you're not getting extra benefit.
Dosing Guide
When
As directed
How
200mg of extract, standardized to 10% andrographolides
Food
With or without food
Recommended Forms
✓ Standardized extracts✗ Non-standardized powders
Onset & Feel
Builds Over Time
Noticeable effects typically appear after a few days of consistent use.
Users may experience a subtle boost in overall wellness. Some report reduced cold symptoms if taken at the onset of illness.
Cycle
Consider cycling Andrographis, taking it for a few weeks during cold and flu season, followed by a break.
How to Take It
Andrographis comes in several formats. Pick what fits your lifestyle.
Capsules/Tablets
Pre-measured doses, easy to take.
✓ Convenient✓ No taste✓ Portable✗ More expensive✗ May need multiple
Powder
Mix with water or a shake.
✓ Cheapest✓ Flexible dosing✗ Needs mixing✗ Taste varies
Softgels
Oil-based for fat-soluble nutrients.
✓ Better absorption for fats✓ No taste✗ Larger pills
Pick this:
Capsules for convenience, powder for value.
Skip this:
Check for unnecessary fillers and additives.
Delivery affects convenience and cost, not usually effectiveness.
Did you know?
Many studies and counting.
Heads Up
Generally safe at recommended doses. Talk to your doc if you have concerns. Check with your doc if: Pregnancy, Autoimmune disorders, Blood thinning medications.
3Deep Dive
The Science, Simplified
For those who want the full picture
Research suggests Andrographis may help with upper respiratory infections, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dosage and long-term effects. Some studies are promising but not conclusive.
Scientific Consensus
6/10
Trust Signals
Grade B
Evidence
50+
Studies
30
Human Trials
0
Meta-analyses
👍 Strong evidence. Most claims hold up under scrutiny.
Mechanism of Action
Believed to stimulate the immune system and possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Research Summary
Scientific consensus: 6/10. Research suggests Andrographis may help with upper respiratory infections, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dosage and long-term effects. Some studies are promising but not conclusive.
Consensus: 6/10MODERATE Evidence
Chemical Forms Deep Dive
The molecular form of andrographis dramatically affects absorption. Here's the bioavailability breakdown for supplement nerds.
Standardized extracts
Common supplement form
✓ Available
Best Absorption:
Standardized extracts
Avoid (poor bioavailability):
Non-standardized powders
Form affects absorption and efficacy. Do your research.
Origins & Manufacturing
Where does andrographis come from? Let's get nerdy.
How It's Made
Manufacturing process varies by supplier.
What to Look For
✓ Third-party tested✓ GMP certified
Drug & Supplement Interactions
4For You
Is Andrographis right for YOU?
Get a personalized verdict based on your health profile.
Products with Andrographis
Supplements that contain this ingredient
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications. IngredientMD does not endorse any specific products.