Andrographis paniculata

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a bitter herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Southeast Asian herbal medicine to support immune function, respiratory health and recovery during seasonal illness. Its main active compounds are andrographolides, plant compounds associated with antioxidant and inflammatory-supporting activity.

Immune and Respiratory Support

Andrographis is best known for its use during seasonal immune challenges.

Its andrographolides interact with several pathways involved in normal immune signalling and the inflammatory response, which is why the herb is commonly found in formulas designed to support the body during periods of increased immune demand.

It has also traditionally been used to support the upper respiratory system, particularly when seasonal changes place greater strain on normal immune defences.

Antioxidant and Inflammatory Balance

Andrographis contains naturally occurring compounds that help support the body's antioxidant defences and regulate inflammatory signalling.

A balanced inflammatory response is important throughout the body, particularly during periods of physical stress, environmental exposure or immune activation.

This gives Andrographis broader relevance to general resilience and recovery rather than limiting its use to one specific body system.

Digestive and Liver Support

Its intensely bitter flavour reflects Andrographis' traditional use as a digestive herb.

Bitter plant compounds can stimulate normal digestive secretions, while Andrographis has also been used traditionally to support liver function and digestion. This connection between digestion, liver function and immune health has made it a common component of traditional whole-body herbal formulas.

Andrographis for Pets

Andrographis can also be included in nutritional formulas for dogs, particularly where immune support, seasonal resilience and a healthy inflammatory response are priorities.

In pet supplements it is generally used alongside other supportive nutrients and botanicals rather than on its own, allowing several aspects of immune and antioxidant health to be addressed within the same formula. As a concentrated herbal ingredient, it should be used at appropriate species-specific amounts.

Andrographis in O2B Products

At O2B Healthy, Andrographis is included in O2B Viro-go for immune and seasonal support and O2B Cognivit as part of a broader formula for cognitive health, vitality and healthy ageing. It is also used in our O2B K9+ Cognivit™ formulas for small, medium, large and extra-large dogs and O2B Feline+ Cognivit™ for cats, where it complements Brahmi, ashwagandha, probiotics and nutrient-rich New Zealand ingredients to support immune function, antioxidant defence and overall resilience.