Adulsa leaves, known as “Vasa” or “Adhatoda vasica,” are indeed a time-honored remedy for cough in the Siddha-Ayurvedic tradition. They can be quite effective due to their expectorant properties, helping to clear phlegm and ease persistent coughing. Here’s how you can prepare them:
Begin by taking a few fresh adulsa leaves – about 3 to 5 leaves should be enough for a single dose. If they are dried, ensure they are revitalized by soaking briefly in water. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Then, you can either crush the leaves to extract the juice, which is more potent, or if juice extraction isn’t feasible, try boiling them. For making a decoction: add the leaves to a saucepan with approximately 2 cups of water. Allow it to simmer until the volume reduces to about half.
Strain the liquid and let it cool a bit before drinking. You can add honey for taste if preferred, which also sooths the throat and works well alongside adulsa. Drink this decoction two to three times a day, preferably after meals, till your symptoms reduce.
While adulsa is generally safe, in susceptible individuals it might cause stomach upset or minor gastric distress. Monitor how your body responds—if any adverse effects occur, discontinue use and seek advice from a health practitioner. Be sure to consult with an Ayurvedic physician to tailor the remedy more specifically to your dosha or any concurrent herbal treatments. It’s safe to use along with other natural remedies unless they have similar warming effects, which could aggravate pitta imbalance. If your cough persists, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions.
