Adalodakam – Potent Cough Reliever in your Ayurvedic Herbs Garden

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Adalodakam (Adhatoda vasica or Adhatoda beddomei or Justicia adhatoda, Malabar Nut in English and Adusa in Hindi) is another useful plant to have in your Ayurvedic herbs garden at home. This plant with excellent therapeutic properties is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing widespread in Kerala. Adalodakam is a large shrub that sometimes grows to the size of a small tree, has lance shaped leaves and has been made use of in several Ayurvedic treatments for centuries, because of its Kapha and Pitta combating properties.

Although it is the leaves, which are rich sources of two alkaloids – vasicine and vasicinone – that are used prominently in Ayurvedic remedies, the flowers, roots and seeds are also used in the preparation of several medicines. To put it simply, growing this at home means you have a simple home remedy for cough, right at hand in your garden.

Medicinal Uses of the Ayurvedic Herb Adalodakam:

Adalodakam against Respiratory Disorders

Having potent anti-asthmatic, antispasmodic, bronchodilator and expectorant, properties, the leaves of Adalodakam have been used to treat chronic cough, asthma, and bronchitis and relieve congestion in the chest. The leaves are also rich in Vitamin C, helping in the relief of colds and cough.
Adalodakam can be taken internally in two ways, Boil the leaves in water and drink it or heat up the leaves, powder it and take in the powder.

Adalodakam to Treat Local Bleeding:

Adalodakam effectively cures bleeding such as those caused by hemorrhoids(piles), peptic ulcers, and bleeding gums. The juice extracted from the leaf is applied to the affected areas to control the bleeding. It is also effective against pyorrhea.

Adalodakam as a Blood Purifier:

Adalodakam has a positive effect on the circulatory system. It removes the toxins in blood and purifies it. Thus it is an effective treatment for acne. Adalodakam extract is also used to purify blood in conditions such as jaundice, and similar blood related skin issues. Adalodakam is also used to increase blood platelet count in victims of snakebites.

Adalodakam for Pregnant and Nursing Mothers:

Adalodakam contains oxytoxin, which induces labor, and so is used to quicken labor and promote easier childbirth. By the same reason, adalodakam is not advised for women trying to conceive. The leaves are added to the therapeutic food given to nursing mothers.

Other Uses of Adalodakam:

This plant is also used as a mild laxative, purgative and sedative.

If you are looking for a plant to grow in your Ayuvedic herbs garden, this is where you need to go.

Coming up next: Brahmi