Botanical Name: Andrographis paniculata nees

Common Name:

English: Rice bitters, Chirayta
Also, known as: Akar cerita bidara, Alui, Andrographidis Kraut, Bidara, Bhoonimba, Bhuinimo, Bhulimb, Bhuninba, Charayeta, Charayetha, Charita, Cheranta, Cherota, Chiraita, Chiretta, Chuan-hsin-lien, Chuan-xı¯n-lián, Công công, Faathalaaichon, Fathalaai, Fathalaichon, Fathalaijone, Halviva, Herba sambiloto, Hinbinkohomba, I-chienhsi, Kalafath, Kan-jang, Kariyat, Khee-pang-hee, King of bitters, Kiriathu, Kirta, kiryata, Kiryato, Lanhelian, Mahatikta, Mahatita, Naelavemu, Naynahudandi, nelavemu, Quasab-uz-zarirah, Sambilata, Sambiloto, Senshinren, Sinta, Xuyên tâm liên, Yaa kannguu yijianxi

Habitat: Subtropical south-east Asia & India

Origin: India

Harvested: Wild

Parts Used: Aerial parts

General Information:

Andrographis paniculata nees grows wild mostly in the tropical and moist deciduous forest of Southeast Asia & India. Kalmegh is an annual plant that has small sharp branches, most often winged towards the apical region. The leaves of the plant are 5 to 10 cm long, flowers are tiny in a panicle. The fruits of the plant are 18to 20 mm longer and 3 to 4 mm broad. The plant has a very light odor, but the taste is bitter. Stems are soft and can be broken easily. It is popular as “Kalmegh” across the Asian subcontinent. Once upon a time, it was well esteemed as a bitter tonic in India. Overexploitation of plant make it scarce and it has become expensive across the market. It is sold as such in dry form; sometimes the leaves get separated, exposing the black twigs

How to use:

Hot Infusion:

The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. Hot water is needed to draw out the antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, flavonoids, and volatile oils from the botanicals. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!

Tips:

You can sweeten your herbal tea with a bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
You can make ice cubes or pops by freezing tea in ice trays or pop molds.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purposes ONLY.

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Kalmegh Whole