Adhatoda vasica

Other names: adatoda medicinal, malabar nut, malabar nut, mullein, mullein, lion's mouth, stallion's tooth, malabar nut, pistol bush, vasa, vasa, vasika, arusha, adulsa

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The vascular immortelle, also known by names such as Malabar tree, stallion's tooth or lesser known terms such as lion's mouth, is an attractive evergreen shrub native to the Himalayan region. The species is characterised by its dark, leathery leaves and tiny tubular flowers that appear at the ends of the branches during the dry season. The vascular immortelle is very popular and widely cultivated in India, not only for its ornamental value, but especially for its medicinal properties.

It is a plant whose extremely potent medicinal properties are used by man in many products. The leaves, flowers and roots can be used in traditional Indian medicine as an effective remedy for asthma and bronchitis. It is also used in the treatment of tuberculosis, dysentery or inflammation of the respiratory tract. Powder from the leaves of this plant is included in some herbal toothpastes and mouthwashes. In cosmetics, it is invariably used in lotions and creams as it has moisturising and soothing effects. The vascular immortelle is also known as a strong antioxidant. In the form of tea, powders, syrups and extracts, vascular immortelle is becoming part of the healthy lifestyle of many people around the world.