Phytochemistry and Medicinal Significance of Adhatoda vasica: A Review

Adhatoda vasica (syn. Justicia adhatoda L.), commonly known as Vasaka or Malabar nut, is a medicinal plant of considerable therapeutic importance in traditional systems such as Ayurveda and Unani. This review presents a comprehensive summary of its phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities. The plant exhibits diverse biological effects including anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, thrombolytic, and wound-healing properties, as demonstrated through various in vitro and in vivo studies. Major bioactive compounds such as vasicine and vasicinone contribute significantly to its pharmacological potential. This review highlights A.*vasica* as a potent source of bioactive molecules and underscores the need for translational research to facilitate its integration into modern therapeutic practice. Relevant literature on Adhatoda vasica was gathered from databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect using suitable keywords such as Adhatoda vasica, phytochemistry, pharmacology and vasicine.