Malabar Nut Tree (Justicia adhatoda), also known as Vasaka, has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, particularly for respiratory ailments. Its leaves are commonly used to prepare extracts that are administered to relieve symptoms of cough, asthma, bronchitis, and sinus congestion. The active compounds, chiefly vasicine and vasicinone, are believed to possess bronchodilatory, expectorant, and mild anti-inflammatory properties. These effects are thought to help clear mucus from the airways and sinuses, which may provide symptomatic relief in sinus infections.

Scientific studies have confirmed some of the pharmacological actions of Malabar Nut, such as its ability to facilitate mucus clearance and its mild antimicrobial activity. However, most studies are either in vitro, in animal models, or focus on lower respiratory tract conditions like bronchitis and asthma. There is limited direct clinical evidence supporting its efficacy specifically for sinus infections in humans. Thus, while its use for sinus infection is well established in traditional medicine and supported by plausible mechanisms, rigorous clinical trials in this context are lacking.