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Vasaka Root Extract

Also known as: Vasaka, Malabar nut, Adulsa, Adhatoda vasica Nees, Adhatoda vasica

Overview

Adhatoda vasica, commonly known as Vasaka or Malabar nut, is a medicinal plant indigenous to South Asia, widely utilized in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. The root and leaf extracts are primarily valued for their applications in addressing respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough. The plant's therapeutic properties are attributed to its rich composition of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids (notably vasicine), flavonoids, and tannins. While traditional use is extensive, scientific research on Vasaka root extract is moderately developed, encompassing in vitro, animal, and a limited number of human studies. The quality of evidence varies, with much of it being preclinical or from small-scale investigations, and a scarcity of rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses specifically on the root extract. Despite this, it remains a subject of interest for its potential in respiratory health and other areas.

Benefits

Vasaka root extract is traditionally recognized and preclinically supported for several benefits, primarily in respiratory health. It exhibits bronchodilator, antitussive (cough suppressant), and anti-inflammatory effects, which are well-documented in traditional use and various preclinical models. The bronchodilatory action helps in relaxing bronchial smooth muscles, while its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce airway inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Beyond respiratory benefits, some animal studies have indicated significant hepatoprotective effects, protecting the liver against toxins such as carbon tetrachloride, likely due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents. Furthermore, in vitro studies have shown a modest clot lysis activity (approximately 19.6% at 5 mg/ml), suggesting potential thrombolytic properties. However, it is crucial to note that clinical evidence in humans for these benefits is limited. A recent clinical trial involving Vasaka leaf extract (not root) combined with other herbs showed safety but did not demonstrate statistically significant improvements in lung function or quality of life in asthmatic patients over a 4-week period. Therefore, while preclinical data are promising, more robust human trials are needed to confirm these benefits.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Vasaka root extract are primarily attributed to its active alkaloid, vasicine. Vasicine exerts bronchodilatory effects by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchi, which helps to open airways and ease breathing. It also acts as an expectorant, promoting the clearance of mucus from the respiratory tract. The anti-inflammatory properties of Vasaka are mediated through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS, thereby reducing inflammation in the airways. Additionally, the extract possesses antioxidant properties that contribute to its hepatoprotective effects and potentially protect lung tissues from oxidative damage. While the exact mechanisms of absorption and bioavailability are not extensively studied, oral administration is the traditional and most common route of use in research.

Side effects

Vasaka root extract is generally considered safe for short-term use, particularly based on its traditional applications and observations from limited clinical trials. No major adverse effects have been consistently reported in human studies. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or stomach upset, is a possible but infrequent side effect. While no significant drug interactions have been definitively documented, caution is advised when combining Vasaka with other bronchodilators or anticoagulants due to the potential for additive effects, which could theoretically increase the risk of side effects or alter the efficacy of these medications. Specific contraindications, especially concerning its use during pregnancy, lactation, or in pediatric populations, are not well-established due to a lack of comprehensive research in these vulnerable groups. Therefore, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and parents considering it for children should consult a healthcare professional. Long-term safety data are also limited, necessitating further research to fully understand its safety profile over extended periods of use.

Dosage

There are no standardized or universally established dosage guidelines for Vasaka root extract based on high-quality human clinical trials. Traditional doses vary widely, and animal studies investigating hepatoprotective effects have used doses ranging from 100–200 mg/kg orally. Human clinical trials, particularly those involving Vasaka leaf extract in combination with other herbs, have used unspecified doses over durations of up to 4 weeks. Due to the lack of robust human data, a definitive maximum safe dose has not been determined. The timing of administration and specific formulation details are also not standardized, though aqueous and alcoholic extracts are commonly used. For any therapeutic use, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate and safe dosage, especially given the limited human efficacy and safety data for the root extract specifically. Self-dosing without professional guidance is not recommended.

FAQs

Is Vasaka root extract effective for asthma?

Preclinical data suggest bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for asthma. However, high-quality human randomized controlled trials are lacking. A small clinical trial showed safety but no significant improvement in lung function over 4 weeks.

Is Vasaka root extract safe to use?

It is generally considered safe for short-term use based on traditional practices and limited clinical observations. However, long-term safety, potential drug interactions, and safety during pregnancy or in children require more comprehensive research.

How quickly does Vasaka root extract work?

Traditional use suggests symptomatic relief within a few days, particularly for respiratory issues. However, there is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm the onset of action or the time frame for noticeable effects.

Research Sources

https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/188610096.pdf – This systematic ethnobotanical review summarizes the traditional uses and pharmacological activities of Adhatoda vasica. It highlights preclinical evidence for hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and clot lysis activities, primarily in animal models, and identifies key bioactive compounds. The review emphasizes the need for more human clinical trials to validate these findings.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1168582/pdf – This clinical trial investigated a probiotic and herbal supplement, including Vasaka leaf extract, in healthy and asthmatic adults. The study found the supplement to be safe and well-tolerated over 4 weeks, but it did not show statistically significant improvements in lung function or quality of life in asthmatic patients. The multi-herb formulation limits conclusions specific to Vasaka.
https://cellmolbiol.org/index.php/CMB/article/download/4058/1888/10234 – This in vitro cytogenetic study examined the effects of Vasaka leaf extract on cell division. It reported mitotic inhibition and cytotoxic effects at high concentrations. While providing insights into cellular mechanisms, its relevance to clinical use of the root extract and overall safety in humans is limited due to being an in vitro study on leaf extract.