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Health Benefits of Vasaka
- Author :
- TATA AIG Team
- ●
- Last Updated On :
- 18/02/2025
Vasaka, also known in English as Malabur Nut, is a tall, herbaceous and evergreen shrub. Its botanical name is Adathoda Vasica. Vasaka is found in India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan.
The Vasaka plant has lance-shaped leaves, yellow bark and purple and white flowers. Its club-shaped capsular fruit is packed with various health benefits. In this blog, we will learn all about the Vasaka leaf benefits.
Nutritional Value of Vasaka
Vasaka is packed with various bioactive compounds like Luteolin, Vasicine, Carotene and more. Due to the presence of various compounds, it is used in medicinal and therapeutic applications. Let us have a close look at the nutritional value of Vasaka per 100 grams:
Vasaka Leaves Nutrients | Nutritional Value Per 100 Grams |
---|---|
Calories | 30 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 7 g |
Proteins | 2 g |
Fats | 0.5 g |
Fibre | 1.5 g |
Vitamin C | 20 mg |
Calcium | 50 mg |
Magnesium | 30 mg |
Iron | 2 mg |
Also Read: Adusa Plant Benefits
Common Vasaka Leaves Benefits
Vasaka is imbued with powerful properties like antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and more, which offer various health benefits. Some of the popular Adathodai or Basanga Patra benefits are listed below:
Vasaka Leaf Benefit for Gut Health
One of the Adhatoda leaf benefits is that they help with gut health. It is a strong digestive stimulant because of its appetite-stimulant and carminative properties. It helps tear down complex food particles in the intestines and stomach.
Furthermore, it also helps promote the secretion of digestive juice. Moreover, consumption of Vasaka powder helps prevent bloating and stomach cramps.
Vasaka Leaf Helps in Purifying Blood
Another major Vasaka leaf benefit is that it helps purify blood because it is a cardiac tonic. It is packed with various bioactive compounds that help manage blood pressure and improve blood count. This further helps prevent various heart ailments.
Furthermore, it is also known for its anti-fibrinolytic and anti-coagulant properties, which prevent the formation of clots in arteries, which can cause heart blockages.
Vasaka Prevents Coughing
Another significant Basanga Patra benefit is that it helps in preventing coughing. The leaves contain natural compounds that act as a cough suppressant and help soothe the throat.
This makes Basanga Patra especially useful for people dealing with respiratory issues like cough or asthma. It works by calming irritation in the airways and reducing the urge to cough, allowing for easier breathing and better comfort.
Vasaka helps in Curing Bronchitis
Vasaka leaves also help treat respiratory ailments like bronchitis. In this medical condition, bronchial tubes get blocked due to inflammation. This generally happens due to the deposition of mucus on its walls, which narrows the air passage.
However, this can be easily treated by consuming Malabar nut or Vasaka because it helps clear clogged passages.
Vaska Herb Reduces Joint Pain
Another common Basanga Patra benefit is that it helps in reducing joint pain. The leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help relieve swelling and discomfort in the joints.
This makes Basanga Patra useful for people suffering from conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory joint issues. Reducing inflammation can ease pain, improve mobility and provide relief from stiffness.
Adhatoda Leaf Benefits for Better Skin
Adhatoda or Vasaka leaves contain essential alkaloids, which provide antioxidant and antibacterial properties. These leaves help treat various skin infections or disorders, such as eczema, itching, acne and more.
Furthermore, the Malabar nut also helps even the skin tone by reducing various signs of ageing and clearing blocked pores.
Vasaka Leaves Heals Ulcers
Vasaka leaves have anti-ulcer properties, which make them beneficial for treating stomach ulcers. The compounds present in the leaves help protect the stomach lining by reducing the production of acid and promoting the healing of damaged tissues. This can help prevent the formation of ulcers or speed up the healing process of existing ones.
Also Read: Health Benefits of Betel Leaves
Vasaka Leaves Uses
Vasaka is available in various forms, from root powder to leaf juice to flower powder and more, which makes it suitable for various applications. Some of the popular Vasaka leaves usage are listed below:**
-Vasaka Leaf Tea
-Ingredients
5 or 7 vasaka leaves
1 to 2 cups of water
Pinch of black pepper
Honey (optional)
-How to Prepare
Step 1: In a pan, boil water on low flame.
Step 2: When the water starts boiling, add Vasaka leaves to it.
Step 3: Let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Switch off the flame and strain the tea into a cup.
Step 5: Add honey and black pepper and mix it well.
Step 7: Serve the tea hot.
-Vasaka Leaf Powder with Honey
-Ingredients
10 to 12 Vasaka leaves
2 tablespoons of honey
1 teaspoon of black pepper
-How to Prepare
Step 1: Wash the Vasaka leaves properly.
Step 2: Then crush the leaves to release juice.
Step 3: Separate the juice from the pulp.
Step 4: Add honey to the fresh Vasaka juice.
Step 5: Add black pepper and mix all the ingredients well.
Step 6: Store the mixture in a clean jar.
-Vasaka Face Pack for Acne
-Ingredients
5 to 6 Vasaka leaves
1 teaspoon of honey
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
-How to Prepare
Step 1: Crush fresh Vasaka leaves to make a smooth paste.
Step 2: Add honey and turmeric powder and mix it well.
Step 3: Apply the paste to the affected area.
Step 4: Leave it for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Step 5: Repeat 2 to 3 times a week for better results.
Common Vasaka Side Effects
Vasaka is packed with various health benefits. However, some people might face some side effects, particularly when using Vasaka in excess or without proper guidance. Below are some of the common side effects of Vasaka leaves:
-Vasaka May Cause Low Blood Pressure
One of the common side effects of Vasaka is that it may lower blood pressure. It has mild vasodilatory effects, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure. Symptoms of this are lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting.
-Vasaka May Cause Gastrointestinal Distress
Another common side effect of Vasaka is gastrointestinal issues. This is due to the compound called alkaloids like Vasicine, which can irritate the stomach lining when consumed in large amounts, leading to digestive discomfort.
-Vasaka May Cause Toxicity
If Vasaka is consumed in large quantities, it may cause toxicity. The alkaloids in Vasaka, such as Vasicine, can be toxic in large doses. Consuming excessive amounts of the herb can lead to poisoning and potentially severe health consequences.
-Vasaka May Interact with Medications
Another possible side effect of Vasaka is that it may interact with certain medications such as those for diabetes, respiratory treatments and blood pressure. In such cases, it is best to consult with a healthcare practitioner before using it.
Conclusion
Vasaka is a powerful herb packed with various health benefits. It contains essential nutrients and compounds that help support respiratory health, reduce inflammation, fight infections and promote overall well-being. However, it should be consumed in moderate quantities as it may cause some possible side effects.
If you experience any Vasaka leaves side effects, it is best to contact a healthcare practitioner. However, if you do not have a health insurance plan, paying a visit to the doctor can put additional financial strain on you.
A medical insurance plan is basically a shield protecting you and your family against unforeseen medical emergencies. With health insurance coverage, you can get quality medical treatment in your hour of need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Vasaka leaves daily?
Yes, you can take Vasaka leaves daily in moderation for their health benefits, especially for respiratory and digestive support. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider before incorporating it.
Can Adathodai benefits include weight loss?
Yes, Adhatoda Vasica can support weight loss, though it is not a primary weight-loss herb. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and metabolism-boosting properties help improve digestion and reduce water retention, which can contribute to weight management.
Can I use Vasaka with other supplements?
No, since Vasaka has medicinal properties, such as being an anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator and expectorant, it could interact with certain supplements or medications, especially those related to blood pressure, diabetes, or respiratory conditions.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide on Health Benefits of Vasaka. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.
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