Vasaka or Adusa is a well-known Ayurvedic medicinal herb. Its various parts such as leaves, flower and stem, contain alkaloid which is scientifically proven to cure respiratory infections. The taste of Vasaka is astringent and bitter. It reduces pitta, kapha and increases vata in body. The flowers of Vasaka plant are white and purple in colour and are full of medicinal properties. A sweet preparation of these flowers known as Vasaka Gulkand, is used in Ayurveda to treat tuberculosis.
Sanskrit: Vasaka, Vasa, Hindi: Adosa, Arusa, English: Malabar Nut
Latin: Adhatoda vasika Nees.(or Adenanthera vasika)
Habitat of Vasaka: Branched shrub with large leaves, growing throughout India especially in lower Himalayan ranges
Recipe and Process for making Vasaka Gulkand
For preparing Gulkand, you will need fresh Vasaka petals, sugar, and a china clay jar to store the preparation. Take fresh petals of vasaka flowers. Clean all petals using soft cloth. Crush the petals and put in the jar of china clay. Add sugar and keep jar in the sun. Stir every morning and evening. After a month Gulkand will be ready.
Benefits
Vasaka gulkand is traditionally indicated in treatment of tuberculosis. This preparation is also useful in treatment of respiratory infections such as cold, cough, bronchitis etc.
The dose of Vasaka Gulkand is 1 to 2 teaspoonful with a glass of lukewarm milk.