On December 17, 2024, ABC aired a story on the 7.30 Report about the incidence of allergic reactions to Andrographis paniculata, a herb with a long history of traditional use and an ingredient of Bioceuticals' ever-popular Armaforce product. Of course, Andrographis is also found in many other herbal formulations and is a common ingredient on herbal dispensary shelves in addition to herbal tinctures.

An analysis of the clinical evidence regarding Andrographis indicates that it increases's immune response to pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and parasites, reducing the duration and severity of infection for minor illness.

Andrographis is known as the king of bitters. Traditional and modern herbal medicine practice does not recommend bitters are taken in high doses. This is because bitters stimulate your digestive juices and overstimulation of your digestive system can lead to tummy upset. Likewise, it's not recommended to use Andrographis long term. Long-term use has been associated with a loss of taste and allergic reactions.

Armaforce has a great reputation for being highly effective at reducing the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections like cold and flu. However, Armaforce is not to be taken every day as a preventative measure. Bioceuticals recommend you take it once a day for a maximum of two weeks during acute illness. If you know and trust the Armaforce product, like many do, bioceuticals offer a separate product under the Armaforce brand called Armaforce Daily Protect which is formulated for everyday use. It does not contain andrographis. Look out for that one.

Vitamin D, C and zinc are all essential to a healthy functioning immune system. Mushrooms such as cordyceps and shiitake also stimulate a healthy immune response. For more on boosting your immune health have a look at these blogs here.

Since 2015, the TGA reports there have been four reported cases of anaphylaxis that can be attributed solely to Andrographis. It's possible other anaphylactic reactions were caused by Andrographis when it was taken in combination with other ingredients (like in armaforce) echinacea, another ingredient of Armaforce can also cause some allergic reactions.

People can have allergic and sometimes anaphylactic reactions to herbs. just like people react to pharmaceutical drugs and certain foods. It doesn't mean these products need to be banned or controlled.

It's not recommended you take Andrographis if you have a history of anaphylaxis. But if you do not, odds are, Androprahis will be perfectly safe.