Across Asia, from Thailand and Vietnam to Asian giants India and China, many people are seeking herbal treatments to alleviate the symptoms of COVID-19 whilst vaccine access remains unequal.
Green chiretta (Andrographis paniculata) or fah talai nicknamed the “king of bitters” in Thailand, has risen in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic and proceeding panic. The herb has been long recognised for its medicinal properties and has been found in ancient Thai, Sri Lankan, and Indian recipes. Before the pandemic, common colds were frequently treated and relieved by the herb. The active ingredient in the herb is called andrographolide, which acts to reduce inflammation and is claimed to limit viral replication.
