Vasaka

(Malabar Nut)
Sanskrit: वासक • Botanical: Adhatoda vasica Nees.

Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica), commonly known as Adusa or Malabar Nut, is one of the most important herbs for respiratory disorders in Ayurveda. The text describes it as a plant growing up to 7000 feet elevation. The leaves, flowers, and root bark are medicinally used. Vasicine is the primary alkaloid, found in leaves at about 1% concentration. The herb is the drug of choice for Kasa (cough), Shwasa (asthma), and Raktapitta (bleeding disorders). Its Sheeta Virya (cold potency) makes it effective in Pitta conditions. The text also mentions its use in Jwara (fever), Kamala (jaundice), and Prameha (urinary disorders). The leaves are used for making Svarasa (fresh juice), Kwatha (decoction), and various other preparations. It is also known to be a potent bronchodilator.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Vasicine (Adhatoda alkaloid), Vasicinone, Adhatodine, Peganine
Also Known As
English: Malabar Nut
Sanskrit: वासक, वासा, वृषा, विपद्ध्वंशा, अटरूषक, सिंहास्य
Hindi: अडूसा, अडूसा, बासा

What is Malabar Nut / Vasaka (अडूसा / वासक)?

Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica), commonly known as Adusa or Malabar Nut, is one of the most important herbs for respiratory disorders in Ayurveda. The text describes it as a plant growing up to 7000 feet elevation. The leaves, flowers, and root bark are medicinally used. Vasicine is the primary alkaloid, found in leaves at about 1% concentration. The herb is the drug of choice for Kasa (cough), Shwasa (asthma), and Raktapitta (bleeding disorders). Its Sheeta Virya (cold potency) makes it effective in Pitta conditions. The text also mentions its use in Jwara (fever), Kamala (jaundice), and Prameha (urinary disorders). The leaves are used for making Svarasa (fresh juice), Kwatha (decoction), and various other preparations. It is also known to be a potent bronchodilator.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Kasahara (relieves cough)
  • Shwasahara (relieves dyspnea/asthma)
  • Raktapitta Shamaka (stops bleeding disorders)
  • Jvarghna (antipyretic)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
  • Hridya (cardiac tonic)
  • Svarya (improves voice)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Vasaka by Condition

Explore how Vasaka is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Vasaka for Brain Fog & Memory
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Vasaka for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.