Botanical Name: Andrographis paniculata

Types of Plant: Herbaceous

Part of the Plant used: Leaves, stems, and sometimes roots

Description: Green Chiretta, scientifically known as Andrographis paniculata, is a medicinal herb native to South Asian countries such as India and Sri Lanka. It belongs to the Acanthaceae family and is characterized by its slender stems, lanceolate leaves, and small white flowers. Green Chiretta has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits:

• Medicinal Uses: Green Chiretta is revered for its potent medicinal properties, particularly its ability to support the immune system and fight infections. It contains bioactive compounds such as andrographolides, which exhibit antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Green Chiretta is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, fever, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. It is also believed to have hepatoprotective properties, supporting liver health and detoxification.
• Anti-inflammatory: Green Chiretta is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it beneficial for conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, and inflammatory bowel diseases. It helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.
• Digestive Health: Green Chiretta is used to support digestive health and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and diarrhea. It promotes healthy digestion and may help regulate bowel movements.
• Antioxidant: Green Chiretta exhibits antioxidant properties, scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative damage. Regular consumption of Green Chiretta may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Cultivation:

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Green Chiretta thrives in full sunlight to partial shade.
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for Green Chiretta. It prefers loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Climate: Green Chiretta prefers warm, humid climates and can tolerate temperatures between 50°F to 95°F (10°C to 35°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected during cold weather.

Harvesting and Storage of Green Chiretta:

• Harvest Green Chiretta leaves and stems as needed for fresh use or drying.
• Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems just above a leaf node.
• Store fresh Green Chiretta leaves and stems in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• To dry Green Chiretta, hang the harvested stems upside down in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once dry, store the leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.