Kalmegh
Sanskrit: Kalamegha
Andrographis paniculata
Known as the king of bitters, Kalmegh is a leafy annual whose taste is unmistakable and unpleasant. It appears in classical Ayurvedic and folk formulations linked with seasonal fevers and sluggish digestion, and is one of the better-studied Indian herbs, though study quality varies. Its bitterness limits casual household use.
Also known as
Kalmegh · Green Chiretta
- hindi:
- Kalmegh
- tamil:
- Nilavembu
- bengali:
- Kalmegh
Parts used
- Leaves and aerial parts
Traditional overview
- Used traditionally as a bitter herb during seasonal fever-prone periods
- Taken as a leaf decoction or juice in folk practice, always short-term
- Included in classical polyherbal formulations for digestion and liver support traditions
- Applied in some regional practices as a bitter tonic after illness
Common traditional forms
- leaf decoction
- fresh leaf juice
- tablets and extracts
- classical formulations
Wellness tags
- seasonal wellness
- digestion
Body focus
- digestive system
- liver
Concerns
- seasonal weakness
- appetite support
What to know before use
Traditional use is short-term, not daily and ongoing. It is not a treatment for any infection and should never delay medical care for a high or persistent fever. Some people react with nausea, appetite loss or rash.
Important cautions
Traditional use only, and not for prolonged self-directed use. Bitter herbs can upset a sensitive stomach. Seek qualified guidance before use if you have any ongoing condition or take regular medicines.
Who should avoid it
- People with autoimmune conditions
- People with liver or gallbladder concerns
- Couples actively trying to conceive
- People with low blood pressure
Medicine interactions
- May add to the effect of blood-thinning medicines
- Caution with blood-pressure, diabetes and immune-related medicines
- Caution with medicines processed by the liver
PregnancyAvoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
ChildrenNot advised for children except under qualified practitioner guidance.
Quality and buying guidance
Look for Andrographis paniculata with a stated andrographolide content if you are buying an extract, since strength differs enormously between plain leaf powder and standardised capsules. Choose a licensed manufacturer with batch numbers and expiry dates. Genuine leaf powder is bitter on the tip of the tongue within seconds; bland powder suggests adulteration or age.
Evidence note
This entry rests on traditional and household use recorded over generations, not on clinical trials. Treat it as cultural and educational information.
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.