Saturday 2 November 2024

What Is Vasaka?

 

What Is Vasaka?



Vasaka is an herbal supplement that helps support respiratory function. It is good to use any time you have a cough, cold / flu, sore throat, have any congestion, or bronchial inflammation. It opens up the airways, helps phlegm discharge, suppresses cough, and improves sluggish lung function in general.


Suggested dose is 1-2 caps daily but for getting rid of cough I have used 2 caps 3-4 times daily with good results and no side effects.

 

More on Vasaka


Vasaka or Malabar nut plant, is an herb with a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for centuries but isn’t all that well known. Many of the health benefits come from the leaves. Its bioactive components seem to be its quinazoline alkaloids, Vasicine and Vasicinone. These alkaloids act as a respiratory stimulant, increasing the activity of the respiratory system.  


Vasaka has been used in traditional medicine to treat colds and chronic coughs.


Vasaka leaves also have antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It may inhibit viral replication. It can help support the immune system and prevent infections, and can also help skin conditions like acne, warts, boils, and eczema.


Vasaka’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties have made its use popular for those suffering with arthritis and joint pain.


Vasaka also shows benefits to the gastrointestinal system. It is a digestive stimulant, and can help reduce bloating and pain. It helps break down food particles, promotes digestive juice secretion, and increases nutrient absorption. Vasaka could be beneficial in treating gastrointestinal disorders like esophagitis, dyspepsia, heartburn, diarrhea, flatulence, peptic ulcer, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).


Vasaka could also help the cardiovascular system. It has been reported to manage blood pressure, and prevent heart rhythm disorders.


A general dosage for Vasaka is 1-3g daily when using a powder. If using the leaves and drinking tea, normally 1-2 cups per day. It is suggested to start at a low dose and titrate up to make sure you don’t experience any unwanted side effects.

 

 

 

References / further reading: