Open almost any Thai household medicine box and you will find andrographis. Known in Thai as fa talai jone (ฟ้าทะลายโจร), and around the world as the “King of Bitters”, it is one of the most widely used herbs in Thailand. This guide covers what andrographis is, how it is traditionally used, what the research says, and how to choose between capsules, extracts and lozenges.

What is andrographis (fa talai jone)?

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a small, upright annual plant native to South and Southeast Asia. Its leaves and stems are intensely bitter – so bitter that its Thai name loosely translates as “heaven’s thief-slayer”. The main active compounds are called andrographolides, and many products are standardised to a set amount of andrographolide per capsule.

Traditional uses

In Thai traditional medicine, andrographis is classed as a “cooling” bitter herb. It has traditionally been used:

• at the first sign of a scratchy or sore throat
• for seasonal cold symptoms and general immune support
• as a bitter tonic to “cool” the body in hot weather

Andrographis also appears in Thailand’s national list of herbal medicines, and it is used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine as well.

What does the research say?

Andrographis is one of the more studied traditional herbs. Several clinical trials and reviews suggest it may help ease the symptoms of uncomplicated upper respiratory infections such as the common cold, especially when taken early. However, many of the studies are small or of mixed quality, so the evidence is promising rather than definitive. Andrographis is not a treatment for serious infections and is not a substitute for medical care.

Capsules, extracts or lozenges: which to choose?

Whole-herb capsules

The dried herb, milled and put into capsules – the traditional Thai format. Good for people who prefer the whole plant.

• Thongtong Osoth Andrographis Fa Talai Jone 500mg (100 capsules)
• Ouay Un Osoth Fa Talai Jone 400mg (60 capsules) – also in a 30-capsule travel box

Standardised extracts

Extracts are concentrated and labelled with a set amount of andrographolide, which makes the strength more consistent.

• Ouay Un Osoth Andrographis Extract, 10mg andrographolide (60 capsules)
• Ouay Un Osoth Andrographis Extract, 20mg andrographolide (45 capsules) – the high-strength option

Lozenges

Dissolved slowly in the mouth, lozenges are popular for throat comfort. Expect them to taste bitter!

• Ouay Un Osoth Golden Dragon Fa Talai Jone Lozenges

How to take andrographis

• Follow the dose on the label – strengths vary a lot between whole-herb and extract products.
• Traditionally it is taken for a short period at the first sign of symptoms, rather than continuously.
• Take capsules with water after food if the bitterness upsets your stomach.
• If symptoms don’t improve within a few days, or you have a high fever or difficulty breathing, see a doctor.

Side effects and who should avoid it

Andrographis may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, headache or allergic reactions in some people. Do not use andrographis if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding. Check with a doctor or pharmacist first if you take blood pressure medicines, blood thinners, immunosuppressants or diabetes medication, or if you have an autoimmune condition or are scheduled for surgery.

Andrographis FAQ

Is fa talai jone the same as andrographis?

Yes. Fa talai jone is the Thai name for Andrographis paniculata.

Why is andrographis so bitter?

The bitterness comes mainly from andrographolides, the compounds it is best known for. That is why capsules are so popular.

What does “standardised to andrographolide” mean?

It means each capsule contains a measured amount of andrographolide, so the strength is more consistent from batch to batch.

Can I take andrographis every day?

It is traditionally used short-term. If you want to use it for longer, speak with a healthcare professional.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.