Andrographis for Asthma? New Study Shows Promise

study PMID: 37652197

Quick Summary: Researchers found that an extract from the herb Andrographis paniculata helped reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing in mice with asthma-like symptoms. This extract, standardized to contain specific compounds, worked by balancing the immune system.

Can Andrographis Help With Asthma Symptoms?

This study looked at how Andrographis paniculata might help with asthma. The researchers used a specific extract of the herb, standardized to contain certain active compounds called andrographolides. They found that this extract helped reduce inflammation in the airways of mice, making it easier for them to breathe.

What The Research Found

The study showed that the Andrographis paniculata extract:

Reduced inflammation: Lowered levels of inflammatory substances in the lungs.

Improved breathing: Made the airways less sensitive, so they didn't constrict as much.

Balanced the immune system: Shifted the balance of immune cells to reduce the overreaction seen in asthma.

Reduced mucus production: Less mucus means easier breathing.

Study Details

Who was studied: Mice with asthma-like symptoms triggered by house dust mites.

How long: The mice were treated for 3 weeks.

What they took: Mice received the Andrographis paniculata extract (APEE) daily by mouth. The extract was standardized to contain specific amounts of andrographolides. Two different doses were tested: 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day.

What This Means For You

This research is promising, but it's important to remember it was done on mice. If you have asthma:

Talk to your doctor: Before trying any new supplements, especially if you're already taking medication.

Consider the extract: If you're interested in trying Andrographis paniculata, look for products that specify the amount of andrographolides they contain.

Don't stop your current treatment: This study doesn't suggest that Andrographis paniculata can replace your asthma medication.

Study Limitations

It's not human research: The study was done on mice, so the results may not be the same for people.

Short-term study: The effects were only studied for 3 weeks.

Small sample size: The study used a small number of mice, which can make it harder to be sure of the results.

Specific extract used: The study used a specific extract with a known amount of active compounds. The results might be different with other products.

Human dosage unknown: The best dose for humans is not known.

Key Findings

The study demonstrated that a standardized 50% ethanol extract of Andrographis paniculata (APEE), containing three main andrographolides, significantly prevented house dust mite (HDM)-induced airway inflammation, remodeling, and hyperreactivity in mice. APEE modulated T-helper (Th) cell balance by inhibiting Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13) and enhancing Th1 cytokine (IFN-γ) expression. Histopathological improvements included reduced mucus hypersecretion and collagen deposition.

Study Design

This was an in vivo controlled animal study using a murine HDM-induced asthma model. Mice were divided into groups: control, HDM-challenged, and HDM-challenged + APEE treatment. The intervention lasted 3 weeks, with APEE administered orally prior to HDM exposure. Outcomes included cytokine levels, gene expression (qPCR), lung histology, and airway hyperreactivity (AHR) measurements.

Dosage & Administration

APEE was given at doses of 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day via oral gavage (n=6–8 mice/group). The extract was standardized to contain 18.5% andrographolide, 6.2% neoandrographolide, and 4.8% 14-deoxyandrographolide. Administration occurred once daily for 21 days, starting 1 week before HDM sensitization.

Results & Efficacy

Th2 cytokine suppression: 200 mg/kg APEE reduced IL-4 (58% decrease, p<0.01), IL-5 (62% decrease, p<0.01), and IL-13 (54% decrease, p<0.01) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF).
Th1 enhancement: IFN-γ increased by 45% at 200 mg/kg (p<0.05).
Airway remodeling: Mucus production decreased by 40% (p<0.05), and collagen deposition fell by 35% (p<0.01) in lung tissue.
Gene regulation: Th2-related genes (GATA3, STAT6) were downregulated, while Th1-related genes (T-bet, STAT4) were upregulated.
AHR: Airway resistance was reduced by 38% at 200 mg/kg (p<0.05).

Limitations

Animal model: Results may not translate to humans due to physiological differences.
Short duration: Effects beyond 3 weeks are unknown.
Sample size: Small cohorts (6–8 mice/group) limit statistical robustness.
Mechanistic gaps: Specific andrographolide contributions to efficacy were not isolated.
No dose comparison: Optimal dosing for humans remains unclear.

Clinical Relevance

While preliminary, the study supports Andrographis paniculata's traditional use for respiratory inflammation and suggests potential for managing allergic asthma symptoms via immune modulation. However, human trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy. Supplement users should note that the extract was standardized to specific andrographolide concentrations, which may differ from commercial products. Current evidence does not justify replacing conventional asthma therapies with AP.

Source: PubMed (2024).