Kang Jang Extract Concentrate
Also known as: Kan Jang®, Nergecov®, Andrographis-Eleutherococcus complex, Andrographis paniculata + Eleutherococcus senticosus
Overview
Kan Jang® is a standardized herbal formulation combining *Andrographis paniculata* and *Eleutherococcus senticosus*, primarily used to manage upper respiratory infections. The key active components are andrographolides from *Andrographis paniculata* and eleutherosides from *Eleutherococcus senticosus*. Recent research has focused on its potential role in managing mild COVID-19 symptoms. It is available in capsule form and is often marketed as an immunomodulatory and antiviral supplement. The quality of evidence is moderate, supported by multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs), but independent replication is somewhat limited. Kan Jang® is not intended to prevent viral infections, but rather to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Benefits
Kan Jang® has demonstrated benefits in reducing COVID-19 symptoms. Studies show a 14% absolute risk reduction in disease progression compared to placebo, with a number needed to treat (NNT) of 7.14. Clinical effectiveness was reported to be 3.84 times higher than placebo (94.54% vs 82.14% efficacy). Patients experienced faster resolution of symptoms such as sore throat, rhinorrhea, and myalgia (p<0.05). The formulation also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, reducing levels of IL-6 and CRP. Significant reductions in cough severity have also been observed (p<0.05). These benefits are primarily observed in individuals with mild to moderate COVID-19.
How it works
Kan Jang® exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. Andrographolides inhibit NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. Eleutherosides modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity, contributing to immune modulation. The combination of these compounds results in synergistic effects that promote viral clearance and reduce inflammation. This multi-pronged approach helps to alleviate symptoms and potentially shorten the duration of upper respiratory infections.
Side effects
Common side effects of Kan Jang® include mild gastrointestinal discomfort (5-10%). Uncommon side effects include headache (1-3%). Rare side effects include allergic reactions (less than 1%). There is a potential for drug interactions with anticoagulants, although the risk is theoretical. Kan Jang® is contraindicated in pregnancy due to limited safety data. It is important to discontinue use if any signs of an allergic reaction occur. Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions should exercise caution. Long-term safety data is limited, so prolonged use is not recommended.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Kan Jang® is 30mg of andrographolides per day. The optimal dose is 90mg of andrographolides per day, typically administered as 6 capsules. A maximum dose of 180mg per day may be used for short-term treatment. The recommended duration of use is ≤14 days for acute infections. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a healthcare professional. Due to limited data, it is not recommended for chronic use. Absorption may be affected by food intake, so consistent timing is advisable.
FAQs
Does it prevent COVID-19?
There is no evidence that Kan Jang® prevents COVID-19. Research indicates it helps reduce symptom severity in confirmed cases, but it is not a prophylactic treatment.
How quickly does it work?
Studies suggest significant symptom reduction can be observed within 3-5 days of starting Kan Jang® treatment for upper respiratory infections.
Is it safe long-term?
Limited data exists regarding the long-term safety of Kan Jang®. It is not recommended for chronic use, and usage should be limited to ≤14 days for acute infections.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9415141/ – This 2022 quadruple-blind RCT (n=86) found a 14% absolute risk reduction in COVID-19 progression with Kan Jang® compared to placebo (p<0.05). The study suggests a potential benefit in managing COVID-19 symptoms, but the single-center design limits generalizability.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10535596/ – A 2023 placebo-controlled RCT (n=86) reported a 3.84 times higher clinical effectiveness with Kan Jang® compared to placebo (94.54% vs 82.14% efficacy, p<0.01). The study indicates that Kan Jang® may accelerate symptom resolution in individuals with mild COVID-19, but the short follow-up period (21 days) warrants further investigation.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/12/2401 – This study investigates the antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of Andrographis paniculata, a key component of Kan Jang. It highlights the potential of andrographolides to inhibit viral replication and modulate the immune response, contributing to the alleviation of symptoms associated with respiratory infections.
- https://vietnamjournal.ru/1381-6128/article/view/645844 – This research explores the immunomodulatory effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus, another key ingredient in Kan Jang. It suggests that eleutherosides can enhance immune cell activity and promote overall immune function, potentially aiding in the body's defense against viral infections.
- https://pureportal.coventry.ac.uk/files/31879702/Binder4.pdf – This document provides a comprehensive overview of herbal medicines for the treatment of COVID-19, including Kan Jang. It summarizes the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of Kan Jang, highlighting its potential role in symptom management and immune support.
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