# Gandira (Clerodendrum phlomidis)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/gandira
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-29
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Clerodendrum phlomidis, Arni, Agnimantha, Shriparni, Tarkari, Wild arrni, Bharangi

## Overview

Gandira (Clerodendrum phlomidis) is an Ayurvedic shrub containing bioactive iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and clerodane diterpenes that drive its therapeutic activity. These compounds exert antioxidant, [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and mucolytic effects primarily by scavenging [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and modulating inflammatory mediator pathways.

## Health Benefits

• May improve sputum clearance by 40% in chronic bronchitis subjects (small-scale report lacking details).
• Reduces joint swelling by 35% in animal models (2015 study in rats).
• Exhibits 60% DPPH radical reduction in in vitro assays indicating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) potential.
• Provides antimicrobial effects with inhibition zones of 12–15 mm against S. aureus and E. coli.
• Preliminary trials note modest [white blood cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) boosts, though lacking specifics.

## Mechanism of Action

Clerodane diterpenes and flavonoids in Clerodendrum phlomidis inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis that drives joint inflammation. Iridoid glycosides appear to modulate NF-κB signaling, suppressing downstream [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as TNF-α and IL-6. Phenolic compounds including luteolin and apigenin contribute to DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging, protecting cellular membranes from oxidative degradation.

## Clinical Summary

Evidence for Gandira remains preliminary and largely preclinical. A 2015 rat model study reported approximately 35% reduction in carrageenan-induced paw edema, suggesting [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity, though rodent models do not reliably translate to human outcomes. A small-scale human report in chronic bronchitis subjects noted roughly 40% improvement in sputum clearance, but methodological details including sample size, controls, and blinding are absent, severely limiting interpretability. In vitro DPPH assays demonstrated 60% radical neutralization, indicating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) potential that requires validation in cell-based and clinical settings before meaningful conclusions can be drawn.

## Nutritional Profile

Gandira (Clerodendrum phlomidis) is not consumed as a food source, so conventional macronutrient profiling (calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates) is not typically established. Its relevance lies in its phytochemical and bioactive compound profile rather than dietary nutrition. Key constituents include: **Flavonoids**: Pectolinarigenin (~0.02–0.08% w/w of dried leaf/root), hispidulin, and scutellarein — responsible for [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (60% DPPH radical scavenging) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activities. **Phenolic acids**: Caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and gallic acid (total phenolic content approximately 45–65 mg GAE/g of dried extract), contributing to free-radical neutralization. **Terpenoids & sterols**: Clerosterol, β-sitosterol (~0.1–0.3% w/w), and lupeol — associated with anti-inflammatory and [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects. **Iridoid glycosides**: Phlomidoside and related compounds (estimated 0.5–1.2% w/w in root bark), considered among the signature bioactives linked to mucolytic and bronchodilatory properties. **Saponins**: Present in moderate concentration (~1–3% w/w in root), contributing to expectorant activity and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects (12–15 mm inhibition zones against S. aureus and E. coli). **Alkaloids**: Trace amounts detected in leaves and stems. **Tannins**: Approximately 2–4% w/w in bark, providing astringent and antimicrobial properties. **Minerals (from ash analysis of whole plant)**: Calcium (~800–1200 mg/100 g dry weight), potassium (~600–900 mg/100 g), iron (~8–15 mg/100 g), magnesium (~200–350 mg/100 g), and zinc (~3–6 mg/100 g) — though these values are from dried plant material not intended for dietary intake. **Crude fiber**: ~18–25% in dried aerial parts. **Crude protein**: ~6–10% in dried leaf material (primarily structural, not nutritionally targeted). **Vitamins**: Ascorbic acid detected in fresh leaves (~15–30 mg/100 g fresh weight); minor amounts of B-complex vitamins reported qualitatively. **Bioavailability notes**: The iridoid glycosides and flavonoid glycosides have limited oral bioavailability (~5–15% estimated) due to first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and poor lipid solubility; traditional Ayurvedic formulations (kwatha/decoction, churna with ghee or honey as anupana) are designed to enhance absorption. β-sitosterol bioavailability is inherently low (~5–10%) but may be improved when administered with lipid-based vehicles (ghrita preparations). Pectolinarigenin undergoes glucuronidation, further limiting systemic availability unless formulated appropriately.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available. Traditional uses include decoctions of roots for diabetes and leaf extracts for respiratory support. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

No large-scale human safety trials for Clerodendrum phlomidis have been published, making a comprehensive adverse-effect profile unavailable. Given its COX/LOX inhibitory activity, concurrent use with NSAIDs, anticoagulants such as warfarin, or antiplatelet drugs may theoretically potentiate bleeding risk and should be approached with caution. Pregnancy and lactation safety data are entirely absent, and use in these populations is not supported by current evidence. Individuals with autoimmune conditions or those on immunosuppressive therapy should consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Scientific Research

There are no large-scale human randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses available for Clerodendrum phlomidis. Current evidence consists mainly of preclinical animal studies and in vitro assays. A small-scale report from Pune University mentions a 2018 study on sputum clearance but lacks detailed documentation.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Ayurveda, Clerodendrum phlomidis is traditionally used as a kapha-vata pacifier for conditions such as [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), asthma, and diabetes. Its applications include root decoctions for painful urination and warm leaf applications for pain relief.

## Synergistic Combinations

Ginger, licorice, cumin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Gandira used for in Ayurveda?

In classical Ayurvedic texts, Gandira (Clerodendrum phlomidis) is categorized under 'Dashamula' group herbs and used primarily for respiratory conditions like bronchitis, rheumatic joint complaints, and fever management. It is typically prepared as a decoction (kwatha) or powder (churna) and administered alongside other adaptogenic herbs. Its traditional indications align with modern findings showing anti-inflammatory and mucolytic activity.

### Does Gandira help with bronchitis or respiratory issues?

A small-scale report suggested approximately 40% improvement in sputum clearance among chronic bronchitis subjects using Gandira preparations, though the study lacked published details on sample size or controls. The proposed mechanism involves mucolytic and mild bronchodilatory actions attributed to iridoid glycosides. Robust clinical trials are needed before Gandira can be recommended as a standalone bronchitis treatment.

### What are the active compounds in Clerodendrum phlomidis?

Clerodendrum phlomidis contains clerodane diterpenes, iridoid glycosides (including phlomiside), flavonoids such as luteolin and apigenin, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. The clerodane diterpenes are considered primary contributors to anti-inflammatory activity through COX and LOX enzyme inhibition. Iridoid glycosides are linked to both immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective effects observed in preclinical models.

### Are there any side effects of taking Gandira supplements?

No systematic human safety studies exist for Gandira, so a complete side-effect profile cannot be confirmed. Based on its pharmacological activity—particularly COX inhibition—gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, or increased bleeding tendency are theoretically possible, especially at high doses or with concurrent NSAID use. Anyone with liver conditions, bleeding disorders, or who is pregnant should avoid use until safety data are established.

### How does Gandira compare to other Ayurvedic anti-inflammatory herbs like Boswellia or Ashwagandha?

Unlike Boswellia serrata, which has multiple randomized controlled trials supporting its AKBA-mediated 5-LOX inhibition in osteoarthritis, Gandira's anti-inflammatory evidence is limited to a 2015 rat paw-edema study showing 35% swelling reduction. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) similarly has stronger clinical backing for stress and inflammation via withanolide modulation of cortisol and NF-κB pathways. Gandira shows promising preclinical data but currently occupies a far lower evidence tier than either Boswellia or Ashwagandha.

### What is the most bioavailable form of Gandira supplement — powder, extract, or standardized preparation?

Standardized extracts of Clerodendrum phlomidis appear to offer higher bioavailability compared to raw powder, as extraction methods concentrate active compounds and improve absorption. In vitro studies show that ethanol and aqueous extracts retain antioxidant potency, though human bioavailability studies are limited. Traditional preparation as a decoction or herbal tea may enhance bioavailability through heating, but standardized extracts typically provide more consistent dosing of identified active compounds.

### Is Gandira safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical data on Gandira use during pregnancy and lactation, and it is prudent to avoid supplementation without medical supervision during these periods. Traditional use in Ayurveda exists, but modern safety studies specifically examining reproductive and developmental outcomes are lacking. Consult a healthcare provider before using Gandira if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

### Does Gandira interact with common medications like antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs?

Limited interaction studies exist for Clerodendrum phlomidis with conventional medications; however, its documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties suggest potential for additive effects with antibiotics or NSAIDs. Because Gandira may have antibiotic-like activity against bacteria such as S. aureus and E. coli, concurrent use with prescription antibiotics warrants medical oversight to avoid redundancy or unexpected interactions. Always inform your healthcare provider if taking Gandira alongside any prescription or over-the-counter medications.

---

*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
*License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*