Exploring the Potent Anticancer Activity of Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh): Mechanisms, Applications and Therapeutic Implications

Despite advancements in therapeutic approaches, cancer appears to be biggest cause of death globally. Consequently, the primary focus should be on early cancer detection, developing the best possible treatment plan to extend the patient’s life, and continuing the hunt for more potent and targeted drugs to treat various cancer types. Stronger anti-cancer drugs have been developed as a result of the current change in natural chemical research towards sophisticated and molecular-level understandings. Infertility, ovarian failure, liver, renal, and heart toxicity, as well as immunosuppressive side effects, are some of the adverse consequences of synthetic medications used in cancer treatment. Consequently, herbal medications may be utilised as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of cancer. Different plant derived drugs are under research. Among the different medicinal plants, Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F) Nees, an herbaceous plant of the Acanthaceae family, is often referred to as the “king of bitters,” plays an important role in the treatment of cancer. This plant is commonly used in India, China, Malaysia, and Thailand to treat sore throat, flu, and upper respiratory tract infections. This plant is rich in bioactive compounds. Andrographolide is widely regarded as a vital bioactive component of A. paniculata. Andrographolide has a highly bitter taste, is colourless, and is crystalline in appearance. Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-viral, antimalarial, anti-hyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, immunological modulatory, protective against alcohol-induced toxicity, cardiac protective action, and anti-cancer activity are just a few of the many potentials for andrographolide. It is reported that when andrographolide is treated on different cancer cells it possesses anticancer activity.