10 Impressive Benefits of Kalmegh (Nilavembu)

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Kalmegh Benefits

Kalmegh, also known as creat, green chiretta in English and nilavembu in India, is a powerful herb revered in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits.

Kalmegh is also well-known as the “King of Bitters” due to its extremely bitter taste.

Scientifically named Andrographis paniculata, this bitter herb has been a staple in Ayurveda and traditional healing practices across Asia.

Native to South Asia, including India and Sri Lanka, Kalmegh has long been used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, to treat a variety of health issues.

It is celebrated for its potent medicinal properties, especially for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and liver-supporting benefits.

This article explores the scientifically backed benefits of Kalmegh (Nilavembu), its side effects and how to include it into your daily routine.

Health Benefits

Here are the kalmegh benefits for health.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Kalmegh is a rich source of several potent antioxidants that contribute to its numerous health benefits.

Antioxidants protect the body by neutralizing harmful free radicals. This reduces oxidative stress, thereby lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and aging.

Andrographolide, also known as kalmegin exhibits strong antioxidant activity, is predominantly found in its leaves contributing to their bitter taste.

And phyto steroids found in kalmegh include beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol, and ergosterol.

Other bioactive compounds in Kalmegh include neoandrographolide, deoxyandrographolide, andrographiside, andropanoside, and andrograpanin.

Additionally, flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol, and apigenin contribute to its therapeutic properties.

Tannins and phenolic compounds also contribute to its antioxidant properties, further enhancing its ability to combat inflammation and protect the body’s tissues.

Together, these antioxidants make Kalmegh a powerful herb for boosting immunity, supporting liver health, and promoting overall wellness by reducing the risk of chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress.

2. May Boost Immunity

One of the primary benefits of Kalmegh is its ability to strengthen the immune system.

Kalmegh contains active compounds such as andrographolide, a potent antioxidant that helps protect the body from infections and illnesses.

Andrographolide works as an immunomodulator, regulating the immune system by boosting the production of natural killer cells and triggering cytokines and chemokines, which help the immune system respond to diseases. It also influences macrophages (a type of immune cell) and aids in producing specific antibodies to fight infections.

In a placebo-controlled study, 107 healthy students took Kan Jang tablets (200 mg), made from Kalmegh extract, for three months to see if it could prevent colds. Kan Jang showed 2.1 times better cold prevention than the placebo. The group taking the kan jong tablets had fewer colds (30%) compared to those on a placebo (62%).

Kalmegh supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules and tinctures. These can be taken during cold and flu season to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

Additionally, Kalmegh has also been shown to boost immunity in those suffering from HIV.

For instance, in a 2000 study conducted in the USA, 35 HIV patients (18 years and older) were given andrographolide at doses of 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg three times a day over several weeks. A dose of 10 mg/kg significantly improved immune function in HIV patients.

While these findings are promising, there is no strong evidence that kalmegh can treat HIV on its own. More comprehensive clinical trials are needed to confirm its role in HIV treatment.

Though kalmegh may support immune health, it should not be considered a standalone treatment for HIV. Conventional antiretroviral therapy remains the primary treatment.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues.

Kalmegh’s potent anti-inflammatory properties may help manage and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for conditions like gout, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling.

Animal studies suggest that kalmegh may have anti-gout properties.

In one study, rats were divided into six groups. Hyperuricemic rats treated with 80% ethanolic extract (EtOH80) of kalmegh at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg for 14 days showed decreased uric acid levels (2.59, 2.54, and 2.48 mg/dl), but not to baseline levels (1.59–1.68 mg/dl). And EtOH80 extract (200 mg/kg) and andrographolide reduced liver XO activity by 17.01% and 19.79%, respectively.

Both uric acid and liver XO levels were reduced in hyperuricemic rats, though not as effectively as with standard drugs.

Liver XO activity refers to the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO), an enzyme found in the liver. Increased XO activity can lead to higher levels of uric acid, which is associated with conditions like gout.

The research demonstrated that Kalmegh extract inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that promote inflammation in the body.

In the same study, after 72 hours, EtOH80 extract (200 mg/kg) and andrographolide (30 mg/kg) reduced swelling to normal levels, similar to indomethacin (3 mg/kg). They also significantly lowered inflammatory markers, similar to indomethacin.

However, further research on Kalmegh is needed to find its efficacy in the treatment of gouty-inflammatory conditions.

4. May Protect Liver from Toxicity

Kalmegh has been traditionally used to support liver health and detoxification.

The liver is crucial for filtering toxins from the blood, and Kalmegh helps protect liver cells from damage while promoting their regeneration.

An animal study evaluated Kalmegh leaf extract for its ability to protect the liver from damage caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in Wistar rats. The ethanol extract significantly improved liver function, showing its potential as a natural remedy for liver ailments.

In another study, Wistar albino rats were treated with methotrexate and Kalmegh extract to study its protective effects. The extract helped restore liver enzyme levels, improve lipid profile, boost antioxidants, and reduced inflammation. It also lowered inflammatory markers, protecting the liver from methotrexate-induced damage.

While promising, more research is needed to find the exact molecular mechanism of Kalmegh in its hepatoprotective properties to validate these results.

5. May Control Blood Sugar Levels

Some studies suggest that Kalmegh may have anti-diabetic properties, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

Andrographolide has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.

Kalmegh may also help reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetes, providing additional support for individuals with this condition.

In an animal study, andrographolide given at a dose of 50 mg/kg effectively lowered blood sugar levels, helped move more GLUT4 (a glucose transporter) to cells, and improved production and release of insulin in diabetic rats.

There are also few clinical studies showing the effect of Kalmegh on blood sugar levels.

Oral administration of extracts of Kalmegh significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels in humans. Additionally, another compound from the plant, 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide, also helped lower blood sugar levels.

While more research is needed, early findings indicate that Kalmegh could be a helpful supplement for managing blood sugar levels and preventing complications associated with diabetes.

6. May Support Cardiovascular Health

Kalmegh can be beneficial for heart health as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

In a study on rabbits, Kalmegh extracts helped prevent blood vessel constriction and increased blood clotting time before and after angioplasty. They also slowed down cell growth and DNA synthesis in a dose-dependent way, similar to how stents prevent excessive cell division.

High blood pressure is one of the primary risk factors of cardiovascular diseases and Kalmegh has shown to lower blood pressure levels in animal studies.

Aqueous extracts and active compounds from Kalmegh have been shown to lower blood pressure in both high blood pressure and normal rats. They also improved blood pressure after heart attacks in animals and reduced platelet clumping in laboratory and animal tests.

High cholesterol levels is another primary risk factor of heart attacks and Kalmegh has been shown to improve cholesterol levels in rodent studies.

In studies with mice and rats induced with high fat levels, andrographolide and neoandrographolide lowered triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol in a dose-dependent manner. They also significantly reduced liver enzyme levels compared to the control drug Simvastatin.

However, further research is needed on humans to find the specific compounds in Kalmegh that improved cardiovascular health and its mechanism on improving cholesterol levels.

7. Helps in Relieving Respiratory Infections

Kalmegh has been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections, including the common cold, bronchitis, and sinusitis.

Its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in relieving respiratory symptoms.

A study was done on 152 Thai patients with pharyngotonsillitis to compare the effectiveness of Kalmegh and paracetamol. Patients took either paracetamol (3.9 g/day) or low (3 g/day) or high doses (6 g/day) of encapsulated Kalmegh dried leaves for for seven days. Both high doses of the herb and paracetamol relieved symptoms by day 3, while the low dose group experienced side effects.

The study suggests high-dose of Kalmegh dried leaves extract that contain atleast 6% of andrographolide could replace paracetamol for treating pharyngotonsillitis.

Similarly, two Swedish studies tested Kan Jang, a combination of Kalmegh and Eleutherococcus senticosus, on 46 and 179 patients with mild upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). Patients took it three times daily for 3-8 days. The treatment group showed significant improvement compared to the placebo with better symptom and diagnosis scores, especially a significant relief in throat symptom.

Kalmegh can be taken in the form of capsules, tablets, or teas.

It’s recommended to start Kalmegh at the first signs of cold or flu symptoms for maximum benefit.

For preventive purposes, it can be taken in smaller doses to boost immunity and lower the risk of respiratory infections. However, it is best to consult doctor first.

8. May Help Reduce the Risk of Neurological Disorders

Inflammation and oxidative stress are the primary risk factors of neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease and Cerebral Ischemia.

Kalmegh has strong anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to its active compound, andrographolide.

The herb is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, damaging neurons and contributing to neurological disorders.

By combating oxidative stress, kalmegh may protect neuronal cells and support overall brain health.

Several animal studies suggest that andrographolide in kalmegh has shown protective effects against oxidative stress markers and inflammation markers, improving mood, memory and learning abilities in the tests for Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease.

In another study, rats with brain ischemia treated with Andrographolide showed less brain damage and reduced harmful substances like superoxide and nitrotyrosine. Andrographolide also lowered the levels of inflammatory markers demonstrating its protective effects against brain ischemia.

While promising, some results were inconsistent and more research on Kalmegh and andrographolide is needed to find its efficacy to treat neurological disorders.

9. May Keep Your Skin Healthy

Kalmegh offers numerous benefits for the skin due to its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Andrographolide, an antioxidant in kalmegh helps protect cells by neutralizing harmful free radicals and also protects mitochondrial integrity by activating antioxidant enzymes.

This antioxidative effect of kalmegh may protect skin from the risk of premature ageing caused by UV radiation and collagen degradation.

In an animal study, it was found that applying andrographolide sodium disulfate to the UV-exposed skin of mice at doses of 0.4 mg, 1.2 mg, and 3.6 mg per mouse led to an increase in antioxidant activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Another animal study found that andrographolide sodium bisulfate at doses of 1.2 mg and 3.6 mg per mouse was effective in controlling collagen degradation induced by UV radiation in the skin of mice.

Kalmegh’s anti-inflammatory effects can soothe irritated or inflamed skin, making it useful for conditions like acne.

Andrographolide may effectively treat acne, which is caused by bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, which triggers inflammation.

In a study on effectiveness of Kalmegh in treating acne, it was found that topical application of Kalmegh extract reduced acne lesions and improved skin appearance.

It was found that andrographolide reduces the levels of inflammation-causing cytokines in acne, although the activity of andrographolide in inhibition of cytokines was not fully understood.

Andrographolide is also said to have skin-lightening properties.

In a 2018 study, 40 Caucasian women with epidermal melasma used a gel containing andrographolide, glabridin, and apolactoferrin for 6 months. It was found that 92.5% of the women tolerated it well and saw significant improvement, with the gel being easy to use.

However, more human trials are needed to confirm the results.

You can use for skin by applying a paste of kalmegh powder or fresh kalmegh leaves mixed with water or aloe vera or honey to help soothe irritation, acne, and promote healing.

10. May Reduce the Risk of Cancer

kalmegh has been demonstrated to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, particularly due to its active compound, andrographolide.

Studies have shown that andrographolide and other compounds from Kalmegh can induce cell cycle arrest and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, making it a potential therapeutic agent in cancer treatment.

Several cellular studies suggests that andrographolide and other compounds Kalmegh extract inhibited the growth of human leukemia cells, prostate, colon and liver cancer cells.

And in an animal study, rats were given a chemical (DMH) and a high-fat diet to induce colorectal cancer. Ethanolic extract of Kalmegh was given in different doses for 20 weeks. At 500 mg/kg, Kalmegh extract reduced abnormal cell growth in the colon by 32% and decreased fat cell size. It also lowered insulin and leptin levels, showing anti-cancer and anti-obesity effects.

However, more research is needed to fully understand its clinical applications.

How to Use Kalmegh

Kalmegh is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and powders. Here are some ways to incorporate Kalmegh into your routine.

Capsules and Tablets

Dosage: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a healthcare professional.
Benefits: Convenient and easy to use, making it simple to include in your daily routine.

Tinctures

Dosage: Typically taken in small amounts, mixed with water or juice.
Benefits: Rapid absorption and customizable dosing.

Powders

Usage: Can be mixed with water, smoothies, or added to food.
Benefits: Versatile and easy to incorporate into various recipes.

Topical Application

Usage: Mix Kalmegh powder with a carrier oil or cream and apply to the skin.
Benefits: Directly targets skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Safety and Side Effects

While Kalmegh benefits are numerous is generally considered safe for most people, it can cause side effects in some individuals.

Some adverse effects including allergic reaction, gastric instability, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, lymphadenopathy, diarrhea, metallic taste, and nausea are also observed in overdosing of Kalmegh extracts.
Few studies suggest that Kalmegh has shown toxic effect on male reproductive organs where sperms are produced.
A dose of 25 and 50 mg/kg body weight for a period of 48 days has been demonstrated to prevent the production of sperms.
Kalmegh may have ovulation-preventive properties, which should be avoided during pregnancy.

However, numerous studies have also demonstrated contradictory results.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

Precautions

Allergic Reactions: Perform a patch test before using Kalmegh topically to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction.
Dosage: Follow recommended dosages provided by healthcare professionals or product instructions to avoid adverse effects.

Closing Thoughts

Kalmegh, often known as the “King of Bitters,” is a powerful herb celebrated for its impressive health benefits rooted in both scientific research and traditional wisdom.

From strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation to supporting liver health and improving skin, Kalmegh is a versatile addition to any wellness routine.

Incorporating Kalmegh into your health regimen can unlock these benefits, promoting overall vitality and well-being.