Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica), Glycyrrhiza (licorice), Piper (long pepper), Alpinia (galangal)
Class: Herbal cough syrup / Expectorant + Soothing respiratory tonic
Manufacturer: Ajanta
Dosage Form: Oral syrup
Similar Brands:
Uses:
Symptomatic relief of cough and related respiratory issues, including:
- Productive (wet/chesty) or dry cough from common cold, flu, or bronchitis.
- Throat irritation, congestion, or mucus buildup.
- Breathing discomfort or mild respiratory tract inflammation.
- Supportive in allergies or seasonal coughs (non-drowsy in many descriptions).
Helps loosen/thin mucus for easier expulsion, calms throat, and promotes respiratory comfort. Not for severe infections (e.g., pneumonia—requires antibiotics) or as primary treatment for chronic conditions; often used for mild, self-limiting symptoms.
Dosage:
Take orally, with or without food (often diluted in water if taste is strong). Typical (follow label or pharmacist advice):
Adults: 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) 3–4 times daily or as needed.
Children 6–12 years: 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) 3 times daily.
Children under 6 years: Not recommended without doctor/pharmacist guidance (many labels advise against use in <6 years unless directed).
Duration: Short-term (e.g., 5–7 days); consult if no improvement after a few days or symptoms worsen (e.g., fever, shortness of breath). Adjust in renal/hepatic issues or consult provider.
Adults: 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) 3–4 times daily or as needed.
Children 6–12 years: 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) 3 times daily.
Children under 6 years: Not recommended without doctor/pharmacist guidance (many labels advise against use in <6 years unless directed).
Duration: Short-term (e.g., 5–7 days); consult if no improvement after a few days or symptoms worsen (e.g., fever, shortness of breath). Adjust in renal/hepatic issues or consult provider.
Side Effects:
Common (mild, often GI-related): Nausea, mild stomach upset, loose stools (from herbal laxative effects in some ingredients), altered taste.
Less common: Allergic reactions (rash, itching—rare but possible with herbs like licorice).
Serious (rare): Hypersensitivity (swelling, breathing difficulty—seek immediate care); potential interactions or effects in high doses (e.g., licorice may affect blood pressure/potassium in prolonged use).
Less common: Allergic reactions (rash, itching—rare but possible with herbs like licorice).
Serious (rare): Hypersensitivity (swelling, breathing difficulty—seek immediate care); potential interactions or effects in high doses (e.g., licorice may affect blood pressure/potassium in prolonged use).
Warnings & Precautions:
Herbal product—read label carefully; not a substitute for medical treatment.
Not for children under 6 years without advice (risk of misuse in young kids).
Use caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (limited data on herbal blends—consult doctor).
Avoid if allergic to any herbal component (e.g., licorice/glycyrrhiza may raise BP in sensitive people).
Seek medical help if cough persists >7 days, worsens, or includes high fever, wheezing, chest pain, or bloody sputum.
May contain sugars/excipients (check if diabetic).
Not for children under 6 years without advice (risk of misuse in young kids).
Use caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (limited data on herbal blends—consult doctor).
Avoid if allergic to any herbal component (e.g., licorice/glycyrrhiza may raise BP in sensitive people).
Seek medical help if cough persists >7 days, worsens, or includes high fever, wheezing, chest pain, or bloody sputum.
May contain sugars/excipients (check if diabetic).
Pregnancy & Lactation:
Pregnancy: Limited specific data on this blend; some herbs (e.g., licorice) have cautions—use only if clearly needed/short-term; consult doctor.
Lactation: Minimal data; generally low risk for occasional use but consult provider (monitor infant for GI effects).
Lactation: Minimal data; generally low risk for occasional use but consult provider (monitor infant for GI effects).
Drug Interactions:
Minimal reported for herbal use, but:
Licorice-containing: May interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, or BP meds (potassium effects).
Avoid combining with strong cough suppressants if productive cough (may hinder mucus clearance).
Licorice-containing: May interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, or BP meds (potassium effects).
Avoid combining with strong cough suppressants if productive cough (may hinder mucus clearance).
Contraindications:
Known hypersensitivity to any herbal ingredient (e.g., Vasaka, Glycyrrhiza, Piper, Alpinia) or excipients.
Children under 6 years (per many labels).
Severe hypertension or potassium issues (if licorice-heavy formulation).
Children under 6 years (per many labels).
Severe hypertension or potassium issues (if licorice-heavy formulation).
Price: Ksh 268/-
Notes:
Pack sizes: 100 mL or 200 mL