Andrographis paniculata is an Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicinal herb. It is widely cultivated in southern Asia, where it is used to treat infections and some diseases, often being used before antibiotics were created. Mostly the leaves and roots were used for medicinal purposes. It has been found to be an effective anti-biotic, anti-viral and immune stimulant. It is a "Winter" herb which has strong heat clearing actions. The Andrographis paniculata plant extract used in dietary supplements is derived from the aerial parts (mostly the leaves) of the plant Andrographis paniculata. It is known to possess a variety of pharmacological activities.