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

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Synopsis

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

Malabar nut (Justicia adhatoda, also known as Adhatoda vasica) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurveda and other systems of medicine for respiratory ailments, including wheezing, asthma, and cough. The primary bioactive compounds, particularly vasicine and vasicinone, have demonstrated bronchodilatory, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties in preclinical and some clinical studies. Scientific validation comes mainly from animal studies and a limited number of human trials. Research shows that extracts of Malabar nut can relax the bronchial muscles, reduce airway resistance, and help in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract, which directly addresses symptoms like wheezing. Some clinical studies have compared its efficacy with standard bronchodilators, revealing comparable or additive effects, though most of these are small-scale or lack rigorous design.

Despite these promising results, large, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking, and much of the clinical evidence is still preliminary. As a result, while the traditional use is strongly supported and there is a plausible scientific mechanism, the overall evidence strength is moderate, leading to a rating of 3 out of 5. Malabar nut continues to be included in several polyherbal formulations for respiratory support, and its main phytochemicals are being investigated for novel drug development targeting asthma and related respiratory conditions.

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