How to Plant Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Saplings
- Choose a site with well-drained soil rich in organic matter that receives full sun.
- When planting in the garden, loosen the soil and dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball.
- When growing in containers, use a grow bag or pot 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep (1 ft x 1 ft) with drainage holes.
- Fill with rich potting soil, set your sapling upright, and cover the roots.
- Water deeply after planting to settle the roots.
- Keep the soil moist until new shoots develop.
Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Plant Care
Temperature
Best grown in warm tropical regions with temperatures between 20°C – 35°C.
Soil
Needs well-drained, fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
Sunlight
Grows well in full sun to partial shade conditions.
Pruning
Prune regularly to encourage fresh growth and denser foliage by removing dried leaves and weak branches.
Care
An easy-care plant that requires occasional watering and feeding.
Manure
Add organic compost or cow dung manure every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season.
Pest Control
Spray neem oil or organic insect repellent to prevent leaf-eating insects and fungal infections.
Potting Mix for the Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Plant
- Mix equal parts garden soil, cocopeat, and organic compost for the best results.
- Ensure the potting mix is light, airy, and well-draining.
- Add neem cake or powder to prevent fungus and insect pests in the soil.
Uses of Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Plant
- Used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine to warm and cleanse the respiratory tract.
- Treats cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis.
- Promotes lung health by removing phlegm and cooling the breath.
- Effective for fever, throat infections, and sinus blockage.
- Leaf extracts show anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Ingredients are used in Ayurvedic cough syrups, herbal tablets, and immunity boosters like Adathodai kashayam.
- Can be consumed as juice or decoction in small quantities for respiratory relief.
- Consult an Ayurvedic doctor for dosage and preparation for internal use.
Benefits of Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Plant
- Dissolves mucus and eases breathing through the nose.
- Relieves cough, cold, and bronchial infections naturally.
- Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent.
- Boosts immunity and detoxifies the lungs.
- Ideal for home growers and medicinal or herbal gardens.
FAQs for Adathodai (Adulsa / Malabar Nut) Plant (Justicia adhatoda)
What is the use of the Adathodai plant?
Adathodai is widely used in Ayurveda and Siddha for treating cough, cold, asthma, and respiratory problems.
Is the Adulsa plant good for lungs?
Yes, it contains vasicine, a natural compound that helps clear mucus, relax airways, and support healthy lung function.
Can I grow Adathodai at home?
Yes, you can easily grow it in containers or window boxes. Ensure a warm climate and moist, fertile soil.
What are the medicinal properties of the Malabar Nut?
It helps relieve cough, aids respiration, cleanses blood, and strengthens natural immunity.
How do I use Adathodai leaves for cough?
Fresh leaves can be boiled in water or mixed with honey to prepare a soothing herbal syrup for cough relief.
Is the Adulsa plant safe for children?
Yes, it is safe for children when given as mild herbal decoctions or syrups after consulting a doctor.
Does Adathodai grow well in pots?
Yes, it can be grown in both small and large pots with proper care and watering.
Can I buy the Adathodai (Adulsa) plant online?
Yes, you can order live Adathodai (Malabar Nut) plants online from BharathGreens with home delivery and planting guidance.
Does the Adathodai plant flower?
Yes, it produces white tubular flowers with purple streaks, usually during the warmer seasons.
Can Adathodai help with asthma?
Yes, Adathodai acts as a natural bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory herb, helping relieve asthma and bronchitis symptoms.
Alternate Names:
- Botanical Name: Justicia adhatoda (Also known as Adulsa or Malabar Nut)
- Justicia adhatoda plant in Tamil as an Adathodai plant (ஆடாதோடை செடி);
- Justicia adhatoda plant in Hindi as an Adulsa plant (अडूसा पौधा);
- Justicia adhatoda plant in Malayalam as an Adalodakam plant (അടലോടകം ചെടി);
- Justicia adhatoda plant in Telugu as an Addasaramu plant (అడ్డసరము మొక్క);
- Justicia adhatoda plant in Kannada as an Adusoge plant (ಅದುಸೋಗೆ ಗಿಡ).
Other common names:
- Adulsa
- Malabar Nut
- Vasaka
- Adhatoda






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