Question

An important medicine for bronchitis is obtained from
A. Adhatoda vasica
B. Curcuma longa
C. Hemidesmus indicus
D. Rauwolfia serpentina

Answer 1

Hint: Adhatoda vasica is known as the Malabar nut or vasaka in general English. Curcoma longa is the plant from which turmeric is obtained and is used as a digestive aid and to treat cancer patients. Hemidesmus indicus is Indian sarsaparilla, found in South Asia and is used in ayurvedic medicine. Rauwolfia serpentina is Indian snakeroot, found in the Indian sub Himalayan regions.

Complete answer: Adhatoda vasica is also known as Adosa. It belongs to a medicinal family and is a component of ayurvedic and homeopathic medicine. The leaves of this plant contain an alkaloid substance. Alkaloids function as bronchodilators. They dilate the bronchioles , thus making the passage of air easier. This makes more air available to the lungs thus, making it easier to breathe and solving respiratory problems. Adhatoda vasica is used to treat cough, TB, malaria and asthma. But, it is especially used in patients with chronic bronchitis. The leaves are very much effective for curing coughs as it soothes the throat.
The juice of this plant loosens cough, thus functions as an expectorant. This makes it easier to expel the cough. The juice is also used as a component in many formulations.
This plant originally belongs to the Indian subcontinent, Laos and Myanmar. It is also beneficial for the symptoms of cold.
Therefore, the answer is Option A.

Note:
Adhatoda vasica belongs to the family Acanthaceae. Thus this plant is mainly useful for the treatment of various respiratory diseases. It is a small herb with medicinal properties and a very important component of ancient ayurvedic medicine. It bears a very unpleasant smell.