Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Adhatoda Vasica Nees: A Comprehensive Review
1
Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai, Acharya Institute of Allied Health Science, Bangalore,
2
Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Maduravoil, Chennai.
3
Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Dubai Health, Dubai, UAE.
Received: 2025-02-18
Revised: 2025-03-21
Accepted: 2025-04-05
Published: 2025-04-10
AdhatadaVasicaNees (family Acanthaceae), commonly known as Vasaka or Malabar nut, it is an important medicinal plant extensively used in Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine for centuries. This review compressively summarizes its ethnomedicinal significance, photochemical profile and pharmacological activities. The plant is rich in bioactive compounds, particularly quinazoline alkaloids such as vasicine and Vasicinone, which exhibit potent bronchodilator, anti – inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Traditionally the A. Vasica has been employed in treating respiratory disorder, which including the asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough, and recent studies have demonstrated its antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and wound healing effects. The phytochemical composition encompasses alkaloids, flavonoids, tannis, phenols and essential oils, contributing to its diverse pharmacological actions such as an antispasmodic, antitussive, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. Emerging research highlights its antiviral and enzyme – inhibitory activities, suggesting potential therapeutic applications infectious and metabolic disorders. This review aims to provide a consolidated insight into the therapeutic potential of AdhatadaVasica, which emphasizing its role as a promising source for developing novel phytopharmaceuticals.
AdhatodaVasica, vasicine, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, traditional medicine, respiratory disorders.