Upper respiratory tract infection or URTI for short, is one of the most common acute illnesses and is the primary reason for absenteeism from school and work. Because most URTIs are caused by rhinoviruses, antibiotics are not useful in their treatment. Thus, alternative treatments are needed.

While summer is upon us, there are certainly several people who are impacted by URTIs and therefore seek other treatment options to deal with the symptoms and to obtain relief.

Common symptoms of respiratory tract infection

Infections of the upper respiratory tract (URTIs) are acute diseases that include the nose, sinuses, pharynx (the throat), and larynx (voice box). Common signs and symptoms of URTIs include:

• Nasal congestion or runny nose: This is the most frequent symptom that manifests in different types of nasal discharge, which can appear clear or thicker and coloured (yellow or green).

• Sore throat: The throat feels itchy, dry and painful.

• Cough: A constant cough that is either dry or produces mucus.

• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing. This may be more common if the infection is viral in nature.

• Fever: Fever, which is more likely in children than adults.

• Fatigue: In many cases, general fatigue and feeling ill are reported by sufferers.

• Headache: Headache or tensehead.

• Hoarseness or loss of voice: Resonance of the larynx may be altered due to swelling or inflammation of the vocal folds.

• Difficulty swallowing: The sore or inflamed throat.

• Muscle aches: Body aches are commonly seen with RTI.

URTIs are normally caused by viruses like the common cold and influenza viruses, though some of them can be caused by bacteria as well. These infections are highly contagious, and they are transmitted by droplets generated from a cough or a sneeze. URTIs are mostly self-limiting conditions that resolve on their own within a week or two.

This, however, can be treated with rest, adequate hydration, and over-the-counter medicines. However, if the symptoms are severe, last for long periods, or are accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, disability, and other alarming signs, getting medical advice will be necessary, to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

An article featured in the journal American Botanical Council sheds light on the usefulness of Andrographis. The study was a pooled collection of reports taken from a number of reputable databases and results were presented based on the outcome of symptom relief and recovery of subjects in all studies.

The results of some clinical trials have shown that Andrographis (called chiretta in this article; Andrographis paniculata) reduces the symptoms associated with uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) such as the common cold and sinusitis. The main active constituents of this plant are andrographolide and its derivatives, which have known antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulant properties. However, no systematic review of randomised clinical trials to determine the efficacy of Andrographis has been conducted; therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct such a review to better define the efficacy of Andrographis in the treatment of uncomplicated URTIs.

The results of this review ‘support the usefulness of Andrographis in reducing the severity of uncomplicated acute upper respiratory tract infection.’ The authors noted, however, that Andrographis is only effective as a ‘symptomatic treatment’ and that antibiotics are required in cases of bacterial infection. Furthermore, the authors recommend that high-quality placebo-controlled trials of other preparations of Andrographis be conducted to confirm this plant’s efficacy and clinical relevance in the treatment of uncomplicated URTIs.

The outcome of the studies does present appealing reasons for applying Andrographis in the treatment of uncomplicated URTIs.

Andrographis and its effect on respiratory tract infections

The herb is found in a number of presentations which can be obtained from health food stores in capsules, tablets or liquid form. Herbal medicines indicated for cough and colds or flu-like symptoms often have Andrographis as a key ingredient; however, always check the label and follow dosing instructions.

If symptoms persist or worsen always speak to your healthcare provider