Herbs (Global Traditional) · Ayurveda
Adhatoda vasica
Moderate Evidencebotanical
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Adhatoda vasica is an Ayurvedic herb containing vasicine and vasicinone alkaloids that support respiratory health through bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Clinical evidence shows it reduces inflammatory markers IL-6 and TGF-β1 while supporting recovery in mild respiratory conditions.
Adhatoda vasica (also known as Justicia adhatoda or Vasa) is a perennial shrub native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, belonging to the Acanthaceae family. The leaves are the primary medicinal source, typically prepared as whole aqueous extracts through boiling or decoction methods. The plant contains alkaloids as its main chemical class, including the bioactive compounds vasicine and vasicinone.
A randomized open-label trial (n=136 completed) tested 500mg/day AV extract for 14 days in mild COVID-19 patients, showing reduced inflammatory markers and no disease progression (PMID: 38049897). An open-label trial demonstrated efficacy in reducing gastric acid in non-ulcer dyspepsia (PMID: 22557371). Most other evidence comes from preclinical models showing anti-inflammatory and anti-hypoxic mechanisms.
Clinically studied doses include 500mg oral Adhatoda vasica herbal extract (Vasa Ghan) daily for 14 days for COVID-19 support. For digestive issues, AV syrup has been used (specific dosage not reported in trials). No standardization details regarding vasicine content were provided in human studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Adhatoda vasica (Malabar nut) is a medicinal shrub rather than a dietary food source; its nutritional profile centers on bioactive phytochemicals rather than conventional macronutrients. Key bioactive compounds include: Alkaloids (primary class) — Vasicine (peganine) at approximately 0.541–1.0% dry weight of leaves (the dominant alkaloid and principal active constituent), Vasicinone at ~0.07–0.15% dry weight, Vasicol, Adhatodine, Adhavasine, and Vasicinol present in trace quantities (<0.05%); Flavonoids — Quercetin, Kaempferol, Apigenin, and Vitexin detected in leaf extracts (total flavonoid content reported at approximately 12–18 mg quercetin equivalents per gram dry extract); Tannins — approximately 2–5% by dry weight; Phenolic acids — Gallic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid present in measurable quantities (total phenolics ~25–40 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram dry extract); Saponins — approximately 1–3% dry weight; Essential oils — trace volatile compounds including terpinene and linalool; Sterols — β-sitosterol and stigmasterol identified chromatographically. Macronutrient data for raw leaf (limited data): crude protein ~12–15% dry weight, crude fiber ~18–22% dry weight, ash content ~8–10% dry weight. Micronutrients detected include calcium (~1,200–1,800 mg/100g dry leaf), iron (~15–25 mg/100g dry leaf), potassium (~900–1,200 mg/100g dry leaf), and zinc (~2–4 mg/100g dry leaf). Bioavailability notes: Vasicine is moderately bioavailable orally; alkaloid absorption is enhanced in aqueous decoctions compared to raw powder; co-administration with piperine has been shown in preclinical models to improve extraction efficiency. The plant is not consumed as food; therapeutic doses are derived from standardized extracts or traditional decoctions, not nutritional intake.
Adhatoda vasica's primary bioactive compounds vasicine and vasicinone act as bronchodilators by relaxing smooth muscle in airways. The herb reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TGF-β1 while modulating inflammation-related gene expression. Vasicine also demonstrates expectorant properties by increasing respiratory secretions and improving mucus clearance.
A randomized controlled trial (n=136) in mild COVID-19 patients showed Adhatoda vasica significantly reduced inflammatory markers IL-6 and TGF-β1, with 100% recovery rates and no progression to severe disease. The study demonstrated measurable anti-inflammatory effects with reduced inflammation-related gene expression. However, clinical evidence remains limited to this single trial, requiring additional research to establish broader therapeutic applications and optimal dosing protocols.
Adhatoda vasica is generally well-tolerated in clinical studies with no serious adverse events reported. The herb may interact with bronchodilator medications due to its similar mechanisms, potentially enhancing effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use as vasicine alkaloids may have uterine stimulant properties. Individuals with hypotension should use caution as the herb may further lower blood pressure.
