‘Fa Thalai Chon’ : Herbal remedy that should be included in household remedy cupboard

After the COVID-19 pandemic which had occurred during the past two to three years, ‘Fa Thalai chon’ (Andrographis paniculata) has become another popular herbal remedy recommended by medical experts to always have at home. It has outstanding properties in treating and relieving symptoms of the common cold in those with symptoms of respiratory system-related illnesses, such as sore throat, fever, cough, runny nose, or symptoms of flu-like syndrome. It is also used in patients with non-infectious gastrointestinal problems or those with diarrhea, non-mucus bloody stool. ‘Fa Thalai Chon’ has been included in the National Essential Drug List and has been used to treat early symptoms of COVID-19 as well as seasonal common cold and flu.

Getting to know ‘Fa Thalai Chon’ and its benefits on our body.
From the above information, we know that Fa Thalai Chon (Andrographis paniculata) has basic benefits in alleviating symptoms of the common cold and in treating early symptoms of COVID-19. Today, we will delve deeper into more understanding of this herbal remedy.

Fa Thalai Chon is classified as a bitter-tasting herb belonging to the cooling group in traditional Thai medicine. It has been used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, such as cough and sore throat. This herbal remedy has been included in the National List of Essential Medicines of Thailand since 1999 (Herbal Medicines List) as a single drug. Information from clinical research supports its use, by showing that taking Fa Thalai Chon can effectively treat symptoms of acute respiratory tract infections, such as cough and sore throat.

In 2012, clinical research revealed that taking Fa Thalai Chon extract combined with other herbal medicine in a capsule form at 31.5-200 mg per day continuously for 3-10 days could significantly relieve symptoms of cough and sore throat in patients with common cold.

How does ‘Fa Thalai Chon’ benefit our body?
According to Thai traditional medicine, an increase in the fire element (representing heat) in our body can lead to symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. To address these symptoms, cooling herbal remedies are used to balance or reduce the excess heat in the body. However, it is essential to use these remedies in appropriate amounts. If taken in excessive quantities, they may cause side effects, such as numbness in the body, weakness in limbs, abdominal discomfort (bloating), diarrhea, or skin rashes.

How to take ‘Fa Thalai Chon’ so that it can have beneficial effects on the body?
Currently ‘Fa Thalai Chon’ (Andrographis paniculata) herbal medicine has been developed into a convenient capsule form, making it easy to consume and readily available for purchase. However, everyone must pay attention to the appropriate dosage when taking this type of medicine. In these capsules, there will be both fiber from the stems/leaves and an active compound called Andrographolide.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, the herbal drug from Fa Thalai Chon should contain Andrographolide at a concentration of not less than 1%. If we are taking Fa Thalai Chon capsules to alleviate cold symptoms, the recommended daily dosage of Andrographolide is 60 milligrams per day, divided into 3-4 doses, taken before meals and before bedtime, continuously for 3-5 days (not to exceed this duration).
Apart from relieving cold symptoms, Fa Thalai Chon also helps boost the immune system, making it less susceptible to catching a cold. Moreover, the bitter taste of this herbal remedy also aids in stimulating the appetite.

“With the frequent changes in the weather, during this period, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Stay healthy!” With best wishes from Paradigm Pharma