Evidence supporting the use of: Malabar nut
For the health condition: Congestion

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Malabar nut (Justicia adhatoda) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other South Asian systems of medicine to manage respiratory ailments, including congestion. Modern scientific research provides a reasonable degree of support for these uses. The plant contains active compounds such as vasicine and vasicinone, which have demonstrated bronchodilatory, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties in both in vitro and animal studies. These effects are believed to help reduce bronchial congestion by loosening mucus and facilitating its expulsion from the respiratory tract.

Several animal studies and limited clinical trials have shown that extracts of Malabar nut can help alleviate symptoms of bronchitis, asthma, and other conditions characterized by airway congestion. The expectorant action is thought to result from the stimulation of bronchial glands, which increases the production of watery secretions, thereby thinning the mucus and making it easier to clear. Additionally, the alkaloids in Malabar nut have shown mild bronchodilatory effects, which can further help relieve congestion by opening up the airways.

Although most clinical studies are small and more high-quality human research is needed, the available evidence is consistent with its traditional use for respiratory congestion. As a result, Malabar nut is an ingredient in many multi-herb formulations for cough and cold in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, and even features in some over-the-counter herbal remedies across the globe.

More about malabar nut
More about Congestion