Adusa (Vasaka) Leaf Tea for the Throat
A thin tea steeped from two or three fresh vasaka leaves and a slice of ginger, sipped warm for a rough throat. Traditional use only; skip in pregnancy and with blood-thinning medicines.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
A bitter leaf with a long history
Adusa, or vasaka, is a shrub whose long, pointed leaves are used in traditional Indian cough remedies. The leaf is bitter, so it is steeped lightly. Its use is traditional and evidence in people is limited.
Wash two or three leaves, steep them with a slice of ginger in hot water for five minutes and sip warm, adding a little honey if bitter. This is a traditional comfort drink and not a treatment for cough or asthma.
Ingredients
- 2–3 fresh vasaka leaves
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 slice of ginger
- Honey, optional
How to prepare
- Wash leaves and tear lightly.
- Steep with ginger in hot water for five minutes and strain.
How to use
- Sip warm, once a day for a few days.
- Add honey after cooling slightly.
Helpful habits
- Use fresh, clean leaves.
- Keep it weak; the leaf is bitter.
Precautions
- Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Ask a doctor if you take blood thinners or other regular medicines.
- Persistent cough, wheeze or fever needs a doctor.
- A traditional drink, not a treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is adusa the same as tulsi?
- No, it is a different plant with long pointed leaves.
Is it safe for children?
- Not without a doctor's advice.
Can I use dried leaves?
- Yes, a pinch.
