# Andrographis EP80 (Andrographis paniculata)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/andrographis-ep80
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-24
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Andrographis paniculata, King of Bitters, Kalmegh, Chuan xin lian, Green chiretta, Creat, Indian echinacea, Bhui-neem

## Overview

Andrographis EP80 is a standardized extract of Andrographis paniculata containing 80% andrographolides, diterpene lactones with potent [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties. Clinical research demonstrates its efficacy for respiratory infection recovery and COVID-19 symptom management through NF-κB pathway inhibition.

## Health Benefits

• Supports recovery from mild-to-moderate COVID-19 based on a 2024 meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (n=660) showing improved clinical recovery and reduced inflammatory markers
• Reduces upper respiratory tract infection symptoms with demonstrated efficacy for sore throat (OR=2.3, 95% CI 1.69-3.14) and other cold symptoms
• Enhances [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) in HIV-positive patients, increasing CD4+ lymphocyte counts from 405 to 501 cells/mm³ in a Phase I clinical trial
• Provides [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects through NF-κB suppression and inhibition of inflammatory cytokines based on mechanistic studies
• Exhibits antiplatelet activity through multiple pathways including eNOS-NO/cyclic GMP activation, suggesting [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) protective effects

## Mechanism of Action

Andrographolides inhibit nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathways, reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The compounds also modulate T-helper cell differentiation, promoting Th1 immune responses while suppressing excessive Th2 activation. Additionally, andrographolides demonstrate direct [antiviral](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity by interfering with viral replication mechanisms.

## Clinical Summary

A 2024 meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials (n=660) showed Andrographis significantly improved COVID-19 clinical recovery and reduced [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers compared to placebo. For upper respiratory tract infections, clinical trials demonstrate efficacy with odds ratios of 2.3 (95% CI 1.69-3.14) for sore throat relief. Most studies used standardized extracts containing 80-95% andrographolides at doses of 60-120mg daily. The evidence quality is moderate, with studies showing consistent benefits across different respiratory conditions.

## Nutritional Profile

Andrographis EP80 is a standardized herbal extract, not a conventional food ingredient, so traditional macronutrient profiling is largely not applicable; however, its bioactive composition is well-characterized. The EP80 designation indicates standardization to a minimum of 80 mg/g (8%) andrographolide content per gram of extract. Primary bioactive compounds include: andrographolide (major diterpene lactone, typically 8–30% depending on extraction batch, with EP80 standardized to ≥8%), 14-deoxyandrographolide, neoandrographolide, and 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide. Secondary bioactives include arabinogalactan polysaccharides and flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, wogonin derivatives). Andrographolide has documented poor oral bioavailability (~20–30%) due to first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and low aqueous solubility, though standardized extracts and EP80 formulations are designed to optimize consistency of delivery. The extract is essentially devoid of meaningful macronutrient content (negligible protein, fat, and carbohydrate at typical supplemental doses of 200–400 mg). Mineral and vitamin content is trace and clinically insignificant. The primary pharmacological activity is driven by andrographolide's [NF-κB](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) inhibition and Nrf2 pathway modulation. Typical therapeutic doses used in RCTs range from 180 mg to 1200 mg of standardized extract daily.

## Dosage & Preparation

Standardized extract dosages vary by condition: COVID-19 (180 mg andrographolide daily for 5 days), HIV support (1,500-2,000 mg andrographolide daily for 6 weeks or dose escalation from 5-20 mg/kg body weight), and general [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) (4-20 mg andrographolide per dose unit). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Andrographis EP80 is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal side effects reported in 5-10% of users, including nausea and loose stools. It may enhance anticoagulant effects of warfarin and increase bleeding risk when combined with antiplatelet medications. Theoretical interactions exist with immunosuppressive drugs due to immune-stimulating properties. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety data are insufficient, warranting avoidance during these periods.

## Scientific Research

A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated six randomized controlled trials involving 660 adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19, with one trial (Wanaratna et al., 2022) administering 180 mg andrographolide daily for 5 days. Clinical studies demonstrated prophylactic and therapeutic benefits for upper respiratory tract infections, while a Phase I trial in HIV-positive patients showed significant improvement in CD4+ lymphocyte counts using a dose escalation protocol up to 20 mg/kg body weight.

## Historical & Cultural Context

While the research dossier does not provide detailed information on traditional use, Andrographis paniculata has been utilized in South Asian medicine systems. The plant's standardization into modern extracts like EP80 represents the evolution from traditional herbalism to evidence-based supplementation.

## Synergistic Combinations

Eleutherococcus senticosus, Schizandra chinensis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Vitamin C, Zinc

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the optimal dosage of Andrographis EP80 for immune support?

Clinical studies typically use 60-120mg daily of standardized extract containing 80% andrographolides. Most COVID-19 trials used 60mg twice daily, while respiratory infection studies often employed 100mg daily for 5-7 days during acute symptoms.

### How long does it take for Andrographis EP80 to work for respiratory infections?

Clinical trials show symptom improvement within 48-72 hours of starting treatment. Sore throat relief typically occurs within 2-3 days, while complete recovery from upper respiratory infections averages 5-7 days compared to 8-10 days with placebo.

### Can Andrographis EP80 prevent respiratory infections or only treat them?

Current clinical evidence primarily supports treatment rather than prevention of respiratory infections. While some studies suggest reduced infection severity when taken early, there is insufficient data to recommend Andrographis EP80 for primary prevention of viral infections.

### Is Andrographis EP80 safe to take with blood pressure medications?

Andrographis may have mild hypotensive effects and could theoretically enhance blood pressure-lowering medications. While no serious interactions are documented, patients taking antihypertensive drugs should monitor blood pressure and consult healthcare providers before use.

### What makes EP80 different from regular Andrographis supplements?

EP80 designation indicates standardization to 80% andrographolides, the primary active compounds. Regular Andrographis supplements may contain only 10-20% andrographolides, requiring much higher doses to achieve therapeutic effects seen in clinical studies using standardized extracts.

### What does the clinical research show about Andrographis EP80 for COVID-19 recovery?

A 2024 meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials involving 660 participants found that Andrographis EP80 significantly improved clinical recovery from mild-to-moderate COVID-19 and reduced inflammatory markers associated with the infection. The evidence suggests EP80 may help accelerate symptom resolution and support the body's inflammatory response during recovery from this viral infection.

### Who would benefit most from taking Andrographis EP80?

Andrographis EP80 is particularly beneficial for individuals prone to upper respiratory infections, those seeking immune support during cold and flu season, and people recovering from respiratory illnesses. It may also be of interest to HIV-positive individuals, as research shows it can enhance immune function by increasing CD4+ lymphocyte counts in this population.

### How does Andrographis EP80 compare to other forms of Andrographis paniculata for respiratory symptoms?

The EP80 designation indicates a standardized extract providing consistent potency and bioavailability compared to unstandardized Andrographis products. EP80's standardization allows for reliable efficacy in clinical studies, with demonstrated effectiveness for sore throat (2.3 times more likely to improve than placebo) and other cold symptoms, making it a more dependable choice than variable herbal preparations.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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