Andrographis

Herbal medicines are used by patients with IBD despite limited evidence. We present a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating treatment with herbal medicines in active ulcerative colitis (UC). A search query designed by a library informationist was used to identify potential articles for inclusion. Articles were screened and data were extracted by at least two investigators. Outcomes of interest included clinical response, clinical remission, endoscopic response, endoscopic remission, and safety. We identified 28 RCTs for 18 herbs. In pooled analyses, when compared with placebo, clinical response rates were significantly higher for Indigo naturalis (IN) (RR 3.70, 95% CI 1.97-6.95), but not for Curcuma longa (CL) (RR 1.60, 95% CI 0.99-2.58) or Andrographis paniculata (AP) (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.71-1.26). There was a significantly higher rate of clinical remission for CL (RR 2.58, 95% CI 1.18-5.63), but not for AP (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.86-2.01). Higher rates of endoscopic response (RR 1.56, 95% CI 1.08-2.26) and remission (RR 19.37, 95% CI 2.71-138.42) were significant for CL. CL has evidence supporting its use as an adjuvant therapy in active UC. Research with larger scale and well-designed RCTs, manufacturing regulations, and education are needed.

Acute viral pharyngitis is a self-limited disease but the symptoms, a sore throat in particular, can affect one's quality of life. Medicine for symptom relief is the main treatment. Recently, many studies have shown that Andrographis paniculata was efficacious in treating many diseases, including upper respiratory infections. However, adverse reactions to systemic intake are a concern. Therefore, A. paniculata spray is intended to reduce systemic adverse reactions and provide patients with more comfort as its local use. This randomized, double-blind study enrolled 60 adult patients with acute viral pharyngitis. All patients were asked to score the severity of symptoms including a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and coughing using an 11-point numeric rating scale from 0 to 10. A physical examination was performed to score the severity of erythematous and swollen mucosa using a 0-3 score (0 = no, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, and 3 = severe). The patients were randomized to receive treatment with either an A. paniculata spray or a positive control chamomile spray. Results revealed a significant reduction in the severity of all signs and symptoms in both groups (p < 0.05). The duration of treatment response in the A. paniculata spray group was 1.9 ± 0.7 days compared to 2.5 ± 1.2 days in the chamomile spray group (p = 0.049). No adverse events were noted in either group. A. paniculata spray is safe and highly efficacious in treating acute viral pharyngitis and can reduce symptoms more rapidly than a positive control spray.

BACKGROUND: While favipiravir had been the standard anti-SARS-CoV-3 drug for COVID-19 treatment in Thailand, the efficacy of favipiravir treatment is controversial. Andrographis paniculata extract (APE) inhibits viral entry, exhibits immunomodulatory effects, and proposes to have the potential for early-stage COVID-19 treatment. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed in Thailand during June - September 2021. Non-severe COVID-19 patients were randomized 1:1 to groups receiving 180 mg/day of APE plus favipiravir (APE-FPV group) or placebo plus favipiravir (placebo-FPV group). Efficacy in preventing disease progression to severe COVID-19 was assessed on day 4, using World Health Organization Clinical Progression Scale (WHOCPS) score and visual analog scale (VAS) for acute respiratory tract infection symptoms. RESULTS: Of 146 patients, there were 73 patients in each group. Non-deterioration of WHOCPS scores on day 4 was 98.63% versus 97.26% of patients in the APE-FPV and placebo-FPV groups (p = 1.000). No difference in supplemental oxygen, hospitalization, and death was shown in both groups. The oxygen supplemental was 4.11% in the placebo-FPV group. The interleukin (IL)-1β was significantly lower in the APE than in the placebo-FPV group throughout the study. We found no difference in virologic outcomes between groups and no substantial adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: APE treatment did not demonstrate additional clinical and virological benefits in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 being treated with favipiravir. Early reduction of IL-1β with APE may be advantageous in preventing cytokine storms in severe COVID-19 and requires further study.

INTRODUCTION: Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) is commonly used for treating uncomplicated Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) in complementary and alternative system of medicine. AP-Bio®(KalmCold®) is a standardized extract derived from the leaves of A. paniculata. This study was proposed to evaluate its efficacy using validated scales and objective measures. METHODS: Participants were randomized in a ratio of 1:1:1 to receive either AP-Bio® 200 mg/day, AP-Bio® 400 mg/day or placebo for 7 days. The primary outcome measure was Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey (WURSS-21) score. The secondary outcome measures were nasal mucous weight, nasal muco-ciliary clearance function and Interleukin-8 in nasal wash, as well as safety and tolerability. RESULTS: A total of n = 331 participants were screened and N = 300 participants were enrolled. The absolute WURSS-21 global score [mean (Standard Deviation - SD)] in the AP-Bio® 400 mg group [5.70 (5.31)] was less than the AP-Bio® 200 mg group [5.81 (4.83)] on Day-3. However, it was much higher in the placebo group [9.55 (14.27)]. AP-Bio® 400 mg group (Mean Difference - MD [Standard Error - SE] = -3.85 [1.52]; 95% CI = -6.85, - 0.85; adjusted p = 0.034) and 200 mg group (MD [SE] = -3.74 [1.51]; 95% CI = -6.73, - 0.76; adjusted p = 0.038) had significantly lower score than placebo. Similarly, on Day-3, the change in global score from baseline was significantly better in the AP-Bio® 400 mg group (MD [SE] = -3.91; [1.82] 95% CI = -7.50, - 0.32; adjusted p = 0.038) and AP-Bio® 200 mg group (MD [SE] = -3.84 [1.97]; 95% CI = -7.72, - 0.04; adjusted p = 0.044) in comparison to the placebo group. Nasal mucous weight, tissue paper counts used, and interleukin-8 showed a trend towards AP-Bio® groups having a favourable outcome when compared with placebo but did not reach statistical significance due to a small sample size. None of the study participants complained of any adverse physical symptoms. However, incident eosinophilia was noted in n = 20 participants on day 3. (n = 6 in AP-Bio® 200 mg group, n = 7 in Ap-Bio® 400 mg group and n = 13 in placebo group; p = 0.181). CONCLUSIONS: Participants in both the AP-Bio® dose g

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the combined anti-inflammatory effect of activating blood circulation and detoxifying Chinese medicines in unstable angina (UA) patients. METHODS: This study was an open-labeled, randomized controlled trial conducted in 5 centers in Beijing. A total of 154 patients were randomized into two groups at a 1:1 ratio by random numbers. Based on the conventional treatment, patients in the activating blood circulation (ABC) group were treated with Guanxin Danshen Droping Pill (, 0.4 g, thrice daily), and patients in the activating blood circulation and detoxifying (ABCD) group were treated with Guanxin Danshen Droping Pill (0.4 g, thrice daily) and Andrographis tablet (0.2 g, thrice daily) for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the serum level of high sensitive C reaction protein (hs-CRP), and the secondary outcome index included the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), thrombomodulin (TM), the score of angina pectoris, the score of blood stasis syndrome, and the score of Chinese medicine symptoms, observed at week 0 and week 4. RESULTS: A total of 144 patients completed the trial (ABC group, n=70; ABCD group, n=74). There were no significant differences in the clinical baseline characteristics between the two groups. When compared with the ABC group, ABCD group showed better performance in reducing the level of inflammatory factors, especially hs-CRP (P<0.05), IL-6 (P<0.01) and TNF-α (P<0.01). In term of clinical symptoms, ABCD group played a better role in improving the scores of angina pectoris and blood stasis syndrome than ABC group (all P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of Guanxin Danshen Dropping Pill and Andrographis tablet exert significant anti-inflammatory effect on UA patients, which is superior to single Guanxin Danshen Dropping Pill. (Registration No. ChiCTR-TRC-13004072). © 2021. The Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine Press and Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.

Preoperative systemic chemotherapy plays a crucial role in enhancing the outcomes of patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Andrographis (major bioactive diterpenoid lactone isolated from Andrographis paniculata; PubChem ID: 5318517), a safe and cost‑effective dietary compound, has demonstrated antitumor effects against various gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas. However, its impact on squamous cell carcinoma remains unclear. The present study explored the antitumor effects of Andrographis and its potential to augment the antitumor efficacy of 5‑fluorouracil (5‑FU). A series of in vitro experiments was conducted, including cell proliferation, colony formation and apoptosis assays, using the ESCC cell lines KYSE410 and TE1. Compared with the controls, Andrographis significantly inhibited cell proliferation (P<0.05), suppressed colony formation (P<0.05), induced apoptosis (P<0.05), and upregulated the expression of ferroptosis‑related genes and proteins, such as HMOX1 (P<0.01), GCLC (P<0.05) and GCLM (P<0.001). Notably, even at a sub‑IC50 dose of 5‑FU, its combination with Andrographis resulted in additive antitumor effects (P<0.05) and further upregulation of ferroptosis‑related gene expression, particularly HMOX1 (P<0.05), compared with either mono‑treatment. The findings of the present study indicate that Andrographis exerts antitumor effects and enhances the efficacy of 5‑FU in ESCC by activating both apoptosis and ferroptosis, suggesting its potential as an adjunctive therapy for ESCC to improve efficacy and reduce 5‑FU dosage and toxicity.

Despite advancements in antifungal therapies, the development of resistance to conventional drugs has compromised treatment outcomes, creating an urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches. Andrographolide, a key bioactive compound from Andrographis paniculata, has demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, its antifungal potential, particularly against clinically relevant fungi, remains underexplored. Amphotericin B, a classic antifungal drug, is widely used for severe fungal infections, but limited by its toxicity at higher doses. Combination therapy has emerged as a promising approach to improve treatment outcomes, reduce toxicity, and limit the emergence of resistance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antifungal efficacy of andrographolide, and in combination with amphotericin B against Candida albicans, Microsporum gypseum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus niger, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Antifungal activity was evaluated using broth microdilution susceptibility testing, while combination effects were analyzed using a checkerboard technique, utilizing the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index to assess interaction outcomes. The concentration at which inhibition is minimal (MIC) against the examined isolates ranged between 400 and 800 µg/mL. A. fumigatus, A. niger, and T. mentagrophytes showed higher susceptibility with lower MICs (400 µg/mL), while A. terreus, M. gypseum, and C. albicans required higher concentrations (800 µg/mL) for inhibition. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values varied, with A. fumigatus and A. niger having MFCs of 800 µg/mL, while the remaining species had MFCs ≥ 1,600 µg/mL. The MFC/MIC ratios indicated fungicidal activity for most isolates, except for M. gypseum and C. albicans. Combination of andrographolide and amphotericin B exhibited antifungal efficacy against A. fumigatus, A. niger, T. mentagrophytes, and C. albicans with FICI values varying from 0.375 to 0.5 (FICI ≤ 0.5) demonstrating a synergistic effect, while it exhibited an additive impact with FICI values of 0.75 (0.5 > FICI ≤ 1.0) against A. terreus and M. gypseum. Andrographolide demons

OBJECTIVE: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains a challenging cancer to treat. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms of Hedyotis diffusa Willd (HDW) combined with Andrographis paniculata (AP) in treating NPC. METHODS: Key compounds and target genes in HDW and AP were analyzed using network pharmacology. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed with STRING and visualized using Cytoscape. MCODE identified critical clusters, while DAVID facilitated GO and KEGG analyses. In vivo and in vitro experiments evaluated HDW-AP effects on NPC, including tumor volume, weight, Ki-67 expression, cell apoptosis, migration, invasion, cell cycle distribution, and DNA damage. RESULTS: The database identified 495 NPC-related genes and 26 compounds in the HDW-AP pair, targeting 165 genes. Fifty-eight potential therapeutic genes were found, leading to 18 key targets. KEGG analysis revealed a significant impact on 78 pathways, especially cancer pathways. Both in vivo and in vitro tests showed HDW-AP inhibited NPC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, this was achieved through AKT1 downregulation and VEGFA upregulation. CONCLUSION: The combination of HDW and AP targets 16 key genes to impede the development of NPC, primarily by modulating AKT1 and VEGFA pathways.

Co-administered medicinal herbs can modify a drug’s pharmacokinetics (PK), effectiveness, and toxicity. Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) ethanolic extract (APE) and andrographolide (AND) (a potent CYP2C9 inducer/inhibitor) can alter the pharmacokinetic parameters of glipizide (GLZ). This study aimed to determine the potential pharmacokinetics of herb−drug interactions between GLZ and APE/AND in the plasma of normal and diabetic rats using the HPLC bioanalysis method. The glipizide bioanalytical method established with RP-HPLC/UV instrument was validated following the EMA guidelines. GLZ was administered alone and in combination with APE or AND to normal and diabetic rats. The GLZ pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated according to the correlation between concentration and sampling time using the PK solver program. A simple and rapid GLZ bioanalysis technique with a lower limit of quantitation of 25 ng/mL was developed and presented the following parameters: accuracy (error ≤ 15%), precision (CV ≤ 15%), selectivity, stability, and linearity (R2 = 0.998) at concentrations ranging 25−1500 ng/mL. APE administration significantly improved the Cmax and AUC0−t/AUC0−∞ GLZ values in normal and diabetic rats (p < 0.05). AND significantly reduced the bioavailability of GLZ in diabetic rats with small values of T 1/2, Cmax, and AUC0−t/AUC0−∞ (p < 0.05). This combination can be considered in administering medications because it can influence the pharmacological effects of GLZ.

Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata) is a traditional herbal medicine that has been widely used in Asian countries for hundreds of years. Andrographolide (AG) is a diterpene lactone extracted from A. paniculata. Owing to the in-depth study of pharmacological mechanisms, the therapeutic potential of AG, including its anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and immunoregulatory attributes, has attracted the attention of many researchers. Studies testing the therapeutic effects of AG have demonstrated desirable results in the treatment of a variety of clinical diseases. With high safety and various biological functions, AG might be a promising candidate for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Here, we review all available literatures to summarize the pharmacological effects of AG and facilitate further researches on musculoskeletal diseases.

Tumor necrosis factor‑related apoptosis‑inducing ligand (TRAIL) selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells, with minimal toxicity to normal tissues. However, accumulating evidence suggests that certain cancer types are insensitive to TRAIL signaling. The aim of this study was to identify an effective combination regimen, which can overcome TRAIL resistance in renal cancer cell. Herein, we found that human renal carcinoma cells (RCCs) are widely resistant to TRAIL‑mediated growth inhibition and subsequently identified that andrographolide (Andro), a major constituent of Andrographis paniculate, an annual herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae, counteracts TRAIL resistance in RCCs. Combined treatment with TRAIL and Andro suppressed cell viability as determined by MTS and proliferation as determined by EdU in a dose‑dependent manner and inactivated the clonogenic and migration ability of RCCs. Andro significantly enhances TRAIL‑mediated cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase as determined by flow cytometry and senescence. Moreover, Andro restored TRAIL signaling, which in turns activated pro‑apoptosis caspases as determined by immunoblot assay. The TRAIL receptor, death receptor (DR)4, but not DR5, was found to be significantly upregulated in Andro‑treated RCC cells, which contributed to the role of Andro as a TRAIL sensitizer. The present study demonstrated that the combined treatment of Andro and TRAIL has potential therapeutic value against renal cancer.

The outbreak of COVID-19 caused by 2019-nCov/SARS-CoV-2 has become a pandemic with an urgent need for understanding the mechanisms and identifying a treatment. Viral infections including SARS-CoV are associated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species, disturbances of Ca++ caused by unfolded protein response (UPR) mediated by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and is due to the exploitation of virus's own protein i.e., viroporins into the host cells. Several clinical trials are on-going including testing Remdesivir (anti-viral), Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine derivatives (anti-malarial drugs) etc. Unfortunately, each drug has specific limitations. Herein, we review the viral protein involvement to activate ER stress transducers (IRE-1, PERK, ATF-6) and their downstream signals; and evaluate combination therapies for COVID-19 mediated ER stress alterations. Melatonin is an immunoregulator, anti-pyretic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and ER stress modulator during viral infections. It enhances protective mechanisms for respiratory tract disorders. Andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata, has versatile biological activities including immunomodulation and determining SARS-CoV-2 binding site. Considering the properties of both compounds in terms of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-pyrogenic, anti-viral and ER stress modulation and computational approaches revealing andrographolide docks with the SARS-CoV2 binding site, we predict that this combination therapy may have potential utility against COVID-19.

Drug delivery through biogenically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in cancer treatment is exerted by smaller size entailing high surface area and synergistic effects of embedded biomolecules. In this study, prepared ternary conjugates of silver with plant active compound and anticancer drug towards reducing the dose through synergy, rendered by Electrostatic Attraction (EA) of functionalized drug on to the surface of biogenically synthesized AgNPs. The biogenic synthesis resulted in particles of nanometer range as well as serving reducing and capping agents. The cytotoxicity and synergistic effect of ternary therapeutic nano conjugates evaluated using MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cells were found to be superior than Doxorubicin (Dox). Quantitative HPTLC analysis showed 57.22 % inhibition by Dox-AP-AgNPs at a concentration of 2.5 µg/mL of Andrographolide and 0.95 µg/mL of Dox validating synergistic effect of the ternary conjugate.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE OF ANDROGRAPHIS PANICULATA: The whole plant (including leaves and roots) is used in traditional Ayurveda and Siddha medicine to treat various clinical conditions such as fever, respiratory tract infections, colic pain, liver disorders, diabetes, hypertension, and inflammation. It is also used as an antidote for snake-bite, poisonous bites of insects and recommended as a dietary supplement to boost immunity. AIM OF THE STUDY: In-vitro thromboelastographic evaluation of the efficacy of methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata (MAP) and polyvalent anti-snake venom (ASV) in neutralizing the Naja naja (N.N) venom-induced changes in hemostatic parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thromboelastographic evaluation of hemostatic parameters was initiated by adding 3μg N.N venom to citrated whole blood from healthy volunteers. The effect of different concentrations of ASV and MAP in neutralizing the toxicity of N.N venom were studied in two groups. In group 1 experiments, citrated whole blood (340μl) was mixed with N.N venom (3μg), immediately followed by successive addition of ASV (5μl, 8μl and 15μl) or MAP (15μg, 30μg, 60μg and 120 μg) or combination of ASV and MAP (3μl ASV+30μg MAP and 3μl ASV+60μg MAP). In group 2 experiments, N.N venom was incubated with whole blood for 90 minutes at 37°C, followed by successive addition of ASV (5μl, 10μl, and 15μl) or MAP (30μg and 60μg) or combination of ASV and MAP (5μl ASV+30μg MAP and 5μl ASV+60μg MAP). RESULT: In Group 1 experiments, N.N venom caused significant (p<0.05) increase in R-time, K-time, LY30% and a decrease in angle and MA. Optimum effect on hemostatic parameters was observed at a concentration of 8μl ASV, where all the deleterious effects of the venom were completely reversed. Similarly, the addition of MAP to the assay system could reproduce results as ASV, in reversing the deleterious effects of the venom. This occurred in a concentration-dependent manner, from 15μg-60μg, with the optimum results at 60μg. When ASV concentration was reduced to 3μl and supplemented with MAP (30μg or 60μg), the positive supplementary effect of MAP was demonstrated. In Group 2 experiments, N.N venom ca

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Xiyanping injection (XYP), extraction of Andrographis paniculate (Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees, chuan xin lian), is a Chinese patent medicine approved to treat bronchitis in China. In 2017, safety incidents associated with treatment of XYP began to emerge throughout China. However, the risk factors of severity of adverse reactions by XYP remain uncertain. AIM OF THE STUDY: To determine risk factors for the severity of XYP-associated adverse drug reactions (ADRs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed a total of 26,317 cases of ADRs linked to the use of XYP injection in the China National Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Information System from 2004 to 2017. Data were analyzed with respect to age, gender, ethnicity, previous ADRs, family history of ADRs, dosage specification, medication frequency specification, body weight, route of administration, herb-drug interactions (ribavirin, cefatriaxone, penicillin sodium, ambroxol hydrochloride, clindamycin, cefoxitin sodium, azithromycin, ceftazidime, amoxicillin sodium and clavulanate potassium, levofloxacin, cefazolin sodium pentahydrate, acyclovir) by univariate analysis and multivariate analysis. Propensity score matching was used to compare severity of (general or serious) ADRs. RESULTS: We included 24,911 cases of general ADRs and 1406 cases of serious ADRs. Univariate analysis identified age (p ​< ​0.001), body weight (p ​< ​0.001), route of administration (p ​= ​0.008), co-administration of XYP with ribavirin (p ​= ​0.031) as risk factors of severity of ADRs. Multivariate analysis identified XYP ​+ ​ribavirin combination (p ​= ​0.048) and age (p ​< ​0.001) as the independent risk factors. Upon propensity score matching, the variables were relatively balanced amongst the two groups of patients with general or severe ADRs, and the level of severity in patients who received treatment of XYP ​+ ​ribavirin increased (p ​= ​0.020). CONCLUSIONS: Age and co-administration of ribavirin may be potential risk factors for the severity of XYP-associated ADRs. This reminds us to pay more attention to the safety of elderly medication. Minimizing the herb-drug-interaction effects of XYP

Andrographis paniculata has been widely used in Scandinavian and Asian counties for the treatment of the common cold, fever, and noninfectious diarrhea. The present study was carried out to investigate the physiological effects of short-term multiple dose administration of a standardized A. paniculata capsule used for treatment of the common cold and uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections, including blood pressure, electrocardiogram, blood chemistry, hematological profiles, urinalysis, and blood coagulation in healthy Thai subjects. Twenty healthy subjects (10 males and 10 females) received 12 capsules per day orally of 4.2 g of a standardized A. paniculata crude powder (4 capsules of 1.4 g of A. paniculata, 3 times per day, 8 h intervals) for 3 consecutive days. The results showed that all of the measured clinical parameters were found to be within normal ranges for a healthy person. However, modulation of some parameters was observed after the third day of treatment, for example, inductions of white blood cells and absolute neutrophil count in the blood, a reduction of plasma alkaline phosphatase, and an induction of urine pH. A rapid and transient reduction in blood pressure was observed at 30 min after capsule administration, resulting in a significant reduction of mean systolic blood pressure. There were no serious adverse events observed in the subjects during the treatment period. In conclusion, this study suggests that multiple oral dosing of A. paniculata at the normal therapeutic dose for the common cold and uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections modulates various clinical parameters within normal ranges for a healthy person. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Andrographolide, a bioactive compound from Andrographis paniculata, has gained attention for its antimicrobial properties, which include antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiprotozoal effects. As an herbal extract used in traditional medicines, andrographolide also shows promise for developing new antimicrobial agents, especially in the fight against rising antimicrobial resistance. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 16 peer-reviewed studies published from 2010 to 2024 and focusing on andrographolide's effects on bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa were reviewed. The quality and bias risk of these studies were assessed using the In Vitro Quality Evaluation Instrument to ensure methodological rigor. The findings demonstrate that andrographolide is effective against bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. However, its antifungal efficacy is limited, as it was ineffective against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but effective against Alternaria solani. It exhibited strong antiviral activity against 2019-nCoV, Dengue virus, and Enterovirus D68, and showed antiprotozoal effects against Plasmodium falciparum and Setaria cervi. Nonetheless, variations in its efficacy across different microorganisms were observed. The quality assessment revealed low bias risk in 11 out of 16 studies (78.57% to 92.86%), while the remaining five had medium bias risk (57.14% to 64.29%), indicating an overall acceptable quality of the studies. Information on andrographolide's potential and effectiveness across various microorganisms is crucial. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to synthesize the existing data on andrographolide's antimicrobial activity and assess its potential in combating antimicrobial resistance. This review highlights the need for further research on andrographolide's antifungal activity, mechanisms of action, clinical safety, toxicity, and potential applications in antimicrobial resistance strategies.

OBJECTIVE: To critically analyse literature on the anticancer properties of andrographolide in in vitro studies on gastric cancer cells. METHOD: This study systematically reviewed articles from 2013 to 2024 across five prominent databases; PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct, EMBASE, Cochrane library and DOAJ. The study eligibility criteria include original studies assessing using gastric cancer cell lines and articles utilizing extracted andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata or standard andrographolide source treatment. The following exclusion criteria were articles written in a different language, review articles, book chapters, conference articles, scientific reports. Duplicated articles were removed using Mendeley software. RESULT: Out of 93 articles, six were relevant, primarily focusing on in vitro analyses with gastric adenocarcinoma cell lines. CONCLUSION: These studies indicate that andrographolide can hinder the cell cycle, suppress cell proliferation, alleviate oxidative stress, and induce apoptosis by prompting gastric cancer cells to undergo self-destruction, which is a crucial mechanism for controlling and eliminating cancerous growths. © 2024 Anis Amiera et al.

PURPOSE: Andrographis paniculata is one of the commonly used herbal medicines worldwide. Nevertheless, evidences on adverse events (AEs) associated with Andrographis paniculata are very limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to estimate and to compare the AE incidence of oral monotherapy Andrographis paniculata with others among patients with upper respiratory tract infection, noninfective diarrhea, and autoimmune disease. METHODS: Systematic search was performed through six databases from inception until August 2018. Randomized controlled trial (RCT), cohort, or intensive monitoring of AEs was eligible for review if AE incidence was examined. The incidence of AEs was, then, pooled across studies using meta-analysis. RESULTS: Ten RCTs and 3 intensive monitoring studies were included. Incidence of serious AEs was very rare with the pooled incidence (95% CI) from RCTs of 0.02 per 1000 patients (0.0-0.5). However, the incidence of nonserious AEs was considered very common with the pooled incidence (95% CI) from RCTs of 102.6 per 1000 patients (10.7-256.1), and the pooled incidence (95% CI) from intensive monitoring of 34.2 per 1000 patients (0.0-229.6). The most common nonserious AEs were related to gastrointestinal disorder, and skin and subcutaneous disorder system. CONCLUSIONS: Like other medicine, Andrographis paniculata can cause some AEs. However, it may be generally safe. Nevertheless, prospective patients who plan to use Andrographis paniculata should be thoroughly advised and closely monitored for common AEs. Due to the increasing use of Andrographis paniculata worldwide, larger studies with adequate methodological quality are warranted to monitor the safety of such product. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

BACKGROUND: Due to the considerable burden of multiple sclerosis (MS)-related symptoms and the need to identify effective interventions to prevent disease progression, various nutraceutical interventions have been trialed as adjunctive treatments. The aim of this review was to investigate the efficacy and safety of nutraceutical interventions for clinical and biological outcomes in people with MS. METHODS: In accordance with PRISMA reporting guidelines, a systematic literature search was conducted using three electronic literature databases. Risk of bias was assessed using the Jadad scale. RESULTS: Thirty-seven randomized controlled trials, investigating fourteen nutraceuticals, were included in the review. Trials that investigated alpha lipoic acid (n = 4/6), ginkgo biloba (n = 3/5), vitamin A (n = 2/2), biotin (n = 1/2), carnitine (n = 1/2), green tea (n = 1/2), coenzyme Q10 (n = 1/1), probiotics (n = 1/1), curcumin (n = 1/1), Andrographis paniculata (n = 1/1), ginseng (n = 1/1), and lemon verbena (n = 1/1) were reported to improve biological (e.g. MRI brain volume change, antioxidant capacity) and/or clinical (e.g. fatigue, depression, Expanded Disability Status Scale) outcomes in multiple sclerosis compared to control. However, most trials were relatively small (average study sample size across included studies, n = 55) and there were few replicate studies per nutraceutical to validate the reported results. Furthermore, some nutraceuticals (e.g. green tea and inosine) should be used with caution due to reported adverse events. Risk of bias across most studies was low, with 31 studies receiving a score between 4 and 5 (out of 5) on the Jadad Scale. CONCLUSION: The existing literature provides preliminary support for the use of a number of nutraceutical interventions in MS. However, sufficiently powered long-term trials are required to expand the currently limited literature and to investigate unexplored nutraceuticals that may target relevant pathways involved in MS such as the gut microbiome and mitochondrial dysfunction. Prospero ID: CRD42018111736.

The diterpene lactone andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata, has been proven to possess several important protective biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, hypolipidemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. In addition, it has been reported to play a therapeutic role in the treatment of major human diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and colitis. This systematic review aims to highlight andrographolide as a promising agent in cancer treatment. To this purpose, a number of databases were used to search for the cytotoxic/anticancer effects of andrographolide in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Among 1703 identified literature articles, 139 were included in this review; 109 were investigated as non-clinical, whereas 24, 3, and 3 were pre-clinical, clinical, and non-pre-clinical trials, respectively. Among the model systems, cultured cell lines appeared as the most frequently (79.14%) used, followed by in vivo models using rodents, among others. Furthermore, andrographolide was found to exert cytotoxic/anticancer effects on almost all types of cell lines with the underlying mechanisms involving oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest, anti-inflammatory and immune system mediated effects, apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, inhibition of cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, invasion, anti-angiogenic activity, and other miscellaneous actions. After careful consideration of the relevant evidence, we suggest that andrographolide can be one of the potential agents in the treatment of cancer in the near future.

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a substantial threat to public health. Safe and effective alternatives are required to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing. Andrographis Paniculata (A. Paniculata, Chuān Xīn Lián) has traditionally been used in Indian and Chinese herbal medicine for cough, cold and influenza, suggesting a role in respiratory tract infections (RTIs). This systematic review aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of A. Paniculata for symptoms of acute RTIs (ARTIs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: English and Chinese databases were searched from their inception to March 2016 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating oral A. Paniculata without language barriers (Protocol ID: CRD42016035679). The primary outcomes were improvement in ARTI symptoms and adverse events (AEs). A random effects model was used to pool the mean differences and risk ratio with 95% CI reported. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool; two reviewers independently screened eligibility and extracted data. RESULTS: Thirty-three RCTs (7175 patients) were included. Most trials evaluated A. Paniculata (as a monotherapy and as a herbal mixture) provided commercially but seldom reported manufacturing or quality control details. A. Paniculata improved cough (n = 596, standardised mean difference SMD: -0.39, 95% confidence interval CI [-0.67, -0.10]) and sore throat (n = 314, SMD: -1.13, 95% CI [-1.37, -0.89]) when compared with placebo. A. Paniculata (alone or plus usual care) has a statistically significant effect in improving overall symptoms of ARTIs when compared to placebo, usual care, and other herbal therapies. Evidence also suggested that A. Paniculata (alone or plus usual care) shortened the duration of cough, sore throat and sick leave/time to resolution when compared versus usual care. No major AEs were reported and minor AEs were mainly gastrointestinal. The methodological quality of included trials was overall poor. CONCLUSIONS: A. Paniculata appears beneficial and safe for relieving ARTI symptoms and shortening time to symptom resolution. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously owing to

OBJECTIVES: Various investigational medicinal products have been developed for ulcerative colitis (UC). Our aim was to systematically evaluate novel pharmacological therapeutic agents for the treatment of UC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations were followed. A search of the medical literature was conducted in the MEDLINE database for original research papers published between 01 January 2010 and 31 October 2014. RESULTS: Twenty one studies, including 11,524 adults were analyzed. Thirteen different novel therapeutic drug options were identified. Vedolizumab and golimumab were superior to placebo as induction and maintenance therapy. Tofacitinib showed dose related efficacy for induction therapy. Etrolizumab showed higher clinical remission rates compared to placebo. Phosphatidylcholine led to an improved clinical activity index. HMPL-004 may become a mesalamine alternative for mild to moderate UC. PF00547,659 was well tolerated. Statins were not beneficial for acute exacerbations of UC. Abatacept, rituximab and visilizumab did not lead to improved outcomes compared to placebo. Higher concentration of BMS 936557 was associated with improved efficacy compared to placebo. Basiliximab did not enhance corticosteroid efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with UC might achieve clinical response or remission by utilizing some of these agents with a favorable side effect profile. Further studies are needed to evaluate their short- and long-term efficacy and safety.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic immune disorders of unclear aetiology. Dietary deficiencies may be a potential pathogenic factor in their development. Patients often take food supplements without knowledge of any evidence base. We have therefore assessed the evidence for food supplementation in the management of IBD. A PubMed search was performed for the terms Inflammatory bowel disease; nutritional deficiencies; dietary supplements; curcumin; green tea; vitamin D/other vitamins; folic acid; iron; zinc; probiotics; andrographis paniculata; and boswellia serrate. PubMed was used to search for all relevant articles published between January 1975 and September 2015. Curcumin supplementation has been reported to be effective in reducing the symptoms and the inflammatory indices in IBD patients. Similar results have been observed for green tea; however, pertinent studies are limited. Vitamin D supplementation may help to increase bone mineral density in IBD patients and to reduce disease activity. IBD patients with ileal resections higher than 20 cm may develop vitamin B12 deficiency that requires parenteral supplementation. There is no current evidence to support fat-soluble vitamin supplementation in IBD patients. Zinc and iron should be supplemented in selected cases. Probiotics (VSL#3) may reduce disease activity in IBD patients with pouchitis. Complementary and alternative medicines are used by IBD patients and some studies have shown promising results. In summary, attention to dietary factors such as curcumin, green tea and vitamins, including vitamins D and B12, appears to be beneficial and, if necessary, supplementation may be appropriate.

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease, which can be well controlled with lifelong use of colchicine. Since studies dealing with the efficacy and safety of colchicine were conducted mainly in the sixties and seventies of the previous century, it seems that this topic needs to be updated. Recently, an international expert panel was undertaken for the establishment of recommendations on how to manage FMF. We aimed to summarize the efficacy and safety of the current treatments available to prevent FMF attacks and to avert the appearance of amyloidosis secondary to FMF. A systematic review was performed. Two reviewers and methodologist established the protocol of the review and the epidemiological questions in PICO terms. MEDLINE through PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Trials Register all up to May 31, 2014, were searched, and only randomized controlled trials or quasicontrolled trials were accepted. For each study, a judgment on risk of bias was then rated as high, moderate, or low. Of 1222 initially captured publications, 153 articles were studied in detail. Finally, only seven studies met all criteria and were included. Among these seven studies, four were randomized crossover clinical trials of colchicine including a total of 57 patients, one RCT of Andrographis paniculata Herba Nees extract employed in 24 patients, one randomized crossover clinical trial of Rilonacept used in 12 patients, and one RCT of interferon treating 34 acute abdominal attacks in 22 patients. The quality of the colchicine trials was low compared with the other drugs trials. Safety was not clearly mentioned in the trials. Colchicine is an effective treatment in FMF. Treatment of rats with the Pelargonium sidoides extract EPs 7630 has no effect on blood coagulation parameters or on the pharmacokinetics of warfarin. Koch E(1), Biber A. Author information: (1)Preclinical Research, Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, Karlsruhe, Germany. [email protected] <[email protected]> Umckaloabo is a herbal drug for the treatment of respiratory tract infections. It contains an aqueous ethanolic extract from roots of Pelargonium sidoides DC (EPs) 7630) as the activ