Botanical Overview
Justicia adhatoda, commonly known as Malabar Nut, Adhatoda, or Vasaka, belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to India and Southeast Asia. The primary parts used medicinally are the leaves and roots.
Energetics
This warming herb has a drying quality, with bitter and pungent tastes. Its energetic direction is descending, acting as a relaxing tonic primarily on the qi aspect.
Primary Actions
- Expectorant
- Bronchodilator
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antitussive
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Respiratory congestion
- Cold
- Fever
Syndromes
- Bronchospasm
- Upper respiratory tract infections
TCM
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Wheezing
Syndromes
- Lung Qi deficiency
- Cold in the lung
Ayurveda
- Cough
- Respiratory inflammation
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
Syndromes
- Vata-Kapha imbalance
- Pranavaha srotas disorders
Unani
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Dyspnea
Syndromes
- Sui’ al-Tanafus (Dyspnea)
- Iltihab-e-Riyah (Inflammation of respiratory tract)
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemical constituents include alkaloids such as vasicine and vasicinone, flavonoids, and tannins which contribute to its bronchodilatory and expectorant activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of leaves: 3-6 g daily
- Tincture (1:5, 40% ethanol): 2-4 mL two to three times daily
- Powdered leaf: 1-3 g twice daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulant effects. It is generally safe in recommended doses but may cause nausea or headache in high doses. Avoid combining with excessive drying herbs or other bronchodilators to prevent additive effects.
Astrological Correspondences
Not assigned due to lack of credible esoteric sources.
Selected References
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 2: Justicia adhatoda (2004)
- Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2002)
- Pharmacological and clinical aspects of Justicia adhatoda – Kumar et al. (2015)