Justicia

(Red Malabar Nut)
Sanskrit: रक्तपुष्प वासक • Botanical: Justicia picta Linn.

Raktavasaka (Justicia picta) is described as a red-flowered variety of Vasaka. It is found growing in gardens and is 8-9 inches tall with reddish leaves. The text indicates it has similar properties to the white-flowered Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) but is specifically noted as a variety. It is used for cough, bleeding disorders, and Kapha conditions.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Vasicine alkaloids
Also Known As
English: Red Malabar Nut
Sanskrit: रक्तवासक
Hindi: लाल अडूसा

What is Justicia / Raktavasaka (रक्तवासक / लाल अडूसा)?

Raktavasaka (Justicia picta) is described as a red-flowered variety of Vasaka. It is found growing in gardens and is 8-9 inches tall with reddish leaves. The text indicates it has similar properties to the white-flowered Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) but is specifically noted as a variety. It is used for cough, bleeding disorders, and Kapha conditions.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Kasahara (anti-tussive)
  • Raktapitta Shamaka (hemostatic)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.