ADULSA: Malabar Nut

ADULSA: Malabar Nut

Adhatoda vasica is one of the two Indian species of genus Adhatoda of the family Acanthaceae known for its medicinal properties. Adhatoda vasica is commonly known as Adulsa, Arusa, Bakas or Malabar nut tree. It is dominant vegetation of hilly areas and throughout the planes of India.

The "drug use" from the fresh or dried leaves of the plant. Leaves contain an alkaloid vasicine, and an essential oil. The chief use of vasaka is as an expectorant; it is given in the form of juice, syrup or decocation, It softens the thick sputum, facilitates its coming out and thus bring about quick relief in bronchitis. The expectorant activity is due to stimulation of bronchial glands. Larger doses can, however, cause irritation and vomiting.

Cattle do not eat this plant as the leaves emit an unpleasant smell.

The leaves of this plant are also utilized as green manure and for yielding a yellow dye.

Due to the presence of certain alkaloids, the leaves are not easily attacked by fungi and insects, and are, therefore, used in packing or storing fruits.

The leaves emit an unpleasant smell and are spared from browsing; the plan is,therefore, suitable for planting in soil reclamation programmes, seed are also useful.

It is well known drug in Ayurvedic and Unani system of medicine and is recommended against various chest ailments like bronchitis,asthma, tuberculosis, cough.

Used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years to treat respiratory years to treat respiratory disorders.

A decoction of the leaves may be used as an herbal treatment for cough.

Used to speed delivery during childbirth.

Used to control both internal and external bleeding such as peptic ulcers, piles and bleeding gums.