Fah Talai Jone herb can stop Covid-19 but offers no protection: study
The Andrographolide substance in the Thai traditional herb Fah Talai Jone (Andrographis Paniculata) can prevent Covid-19 from entering body cells and therefore dividing itself, announced Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine director-general Dr Amporn Benjaponpitak.
“The department has been conducting research into the effectiveness of Fah Talai Jone in Covid-19 patients in cooperation with the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Chulabhorn Research Institute, the Department of Medical Sciences and the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation,” she said.
“Since December 2020, we have given Fah Talai Jone to 304 Covid-19 patients with non-severe symptoms. Most of the patients responded to the herb immediately and their condition actually improved in five days. The medication also did not have any adverse effects,” she explained.
“Each patient was given the herb containing 180 milligrams of Andrographolide three times a day before meals. However, the use of the herb must be under doctor supervision only,” she advised.
However, Amporn made it clear that although Fah Talai Jone is effective in stopping Covid-19 from progressing, it cannot provide any actual protection against the virus.
“If you suspect that you may have contracted Covid-19, get a test immediately, then stay in isolation and follow the measures suggested by the Public Health Ministry,” she said.
“Fah Talai Jone has been traditionally used to treat fever, cough and a sore throat. However, if your symptoms do not improve in two days of usage, you should see a doctor,” she added.