Research project

Andrographis paniculata for respiratory tract infections

Project overview

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are one of the most common reasons for GP consultations in the UK and 75% of all antibiotic prescribing arises in this setting. Research has suggested RTIs are predominantly caused by viruses, and that antibiotics are of very limited benefit in the majority of uncomplicated infections.

Currently in the UK, although herbs are readily available to the public and becoming increasingly popular, rigorous research into effectiveness, safety, and quality of herbal medicine is needed. One of the biggest motivations supporting this area of research, is the evolving global threat to public health of anti-microbial resistance (AMR). The reduction of antibiotic prescribing is now a major priority for the government and the NIHR.

Andrographis Paniculata (A. Paniculata, Chuān Xīn Lián) has traditionally been used as an antipyretic for relieving and reducing the severity and duration of symptoms of common colds and alleviating fever, cough and sore throats. The key component, known as the andrographolides, have shown anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-allergic, and immune-stimulatory activities.

The study suggests A. Paniculata appears beneficial and safe for relieving acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) symptoms and shortening time to symptom resolution.

Staff

Lead researchers
Other researchers

Dr Merlin Willcox

Principal Research Fellow

Research interests

  • Global maternal and child health
  • Antibiotic stewardship
  • Systematic reviews
Connect with Merlin

Professor Miriam Santer

Professor of Primary Care Research

Research interests

  • Self-management of long-term conditions
  • Primary Care Dermatology - particularly eczema, acne and cellulitis
  • Mixed methods research including development and evaluation of complex interventions
Connect with Miriam

Research outputs

Xiao-Yang Hu, Ruo-Han Wu, Martin Logue, Clara Blondel, Lily Yuen Wan Lai, Beth Stuart, Andrew Flower, Yu-Tong Fei, Michael Moore, Jonathan Shepherd, Jian-Ping Liu & George Lewith, 2018, PLoS ONE, 13(11)
Type: article
Xiao-Yang Hu, Ruo-Han Wu, Martin Logue, Clara Blondel, Lily Yuen Wan Lai, Beth Stuart, Andrew Flower, Yu-Tong Fei, Michael Moore, Jonathan Shepherd, Jian-Ping Liu & George Lewith, 2017, PLoS ONE, 12(8), 1-30
Type: article