[at-l] Kan Jang for Colds

[janl2@mindspring.com (Jan Leitschuh)]

Here's a start, and it cites the scientific references:

>From 
http://www.tnp.com/encyclopedia/substance/7/

                 "Andrographis is a shrub found throughout India and
other Asian countries that is sometimes called "Indian echinacea." It
has been used historically in epidemics, including the Indian flu
epidemic in 1919, during which andrographis was credited with stopping
the spread of the disease.1 "
And

What Is Andrographis Used for Today?


                 Over the last decade, andrographis has become popular
in Scandinavia as a treatment for colds. It is beginning to become
available in the United States as well. Reasonably good evidence tells
us that it can reduce the severity of cold symptoms. It may also help
prevent colds.
                 Although we don't know how andrographis might work for
colds, some evidence suggests that it might stimulate immunity.2
Interestingly, the ingredient of andrographis used for standardization
purposes, andrographolide, does not appear to affect the immune system
as much as the whole plant extract. 

                 Preliminary studies in animals also suggest that
andrographis may offer benefits for preventing heart disease.3,4,5 In
addition, highly preliminary studies suggest that andrographis may help
protect the liver from toxic injury, perhaps more successfully than the
more famous liver-protective herb milk thistle.6,7,8 It also appears to
stimulategallbladder contraction.9 Andrographis does not appear to have
any antibacterial effects.10"


This doesn't mention AIDS and HIV, which is where a bunch of current
research is ongoing on the anti-viral and immune-strengthening
properties of andrographis. 
I suppose I'd be skeptical too. After all, you don't know if I'm a
flake. But if I'm enthusiastic, it's only because it WORKS for ME. Who
knows if it will work for you. 
Direct experience is the best research in the long run. "Tis the season
to find out.

> 
> I am unfamiliar with these substances.  To clarify your statement, are you
> saying Kan Jang, Andrographis, and Indian Echinacea are the same substance?
> Similar substances? 
> Do you also believe this substance is, or these substances are, very
> effective against the common Cold?

> Thanks.  Steve
> 
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    Jan Leitschuh Sporthorses Ltd.

http://www.mindspring.com/~janl2

E-mail:  mailto:janl2@mindspring.com

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