Botanical Name: Andrographis paniculata

Common Names:

• Arugambul (Tamil)
• Kalmegh (Hindi)
• King of Bitters
• Green Chiretta
• Nilavembu (in Tamil and Sanskrit)
• Chiretta (in English)

Plant Description:

• Arugambul is an annual herb that typically grows to a height of 30-110 cm (1-3 feet).
• It has long, lance-shaped leaves that are dark green and sometimes hairy on the underside.
• The plant produces small, pale purple to white flowers that grow in spike-like clusters.
• The plant's most notable feature is its bitter taste, particularly in the leaves and stems, which is why it has earned the name "King of Bitters."

Flowers and Fruits:

• The plant blooms with small, tubular flowers that are typically white or pale purple.
• After flowering, it produces small, cylindrical fruits that contain seeds.