Abstract

A BRIEF REVIEW ON PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF CASSIA FISTULA

Vijishna A. M.*, Satish S. and A. R. Shabaraya

ABSTRACT

Cassia fistula Linn is an important medicinal plant commonly known as golden shower has been used as medicines for various ailments since ancient times. Cassia fistula grows throughout in Asian countries such as India, China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Cassia fistula plants are used as ornamental and shade tree around the houses and also used in the event ‘Vishukkani’ on the day of vishu (First day of zodiac calendar) , which literally means that "the first thing seen on the day of Vishu after waking up". The trade name of Cassia fistula is based on its scientific name that is fistula which literally means ‘shepherd’s pipe’. In Ayurvedic it is known as aragvadha, that mean "disease killer" and it is used as a laxative, and in a variety of ayurvedic preparations for so-called "blood conditions". Traditionally it is taken in many forms, as Aragvadhadikvatha, Aragvadhadileha, Aragvadharishta, In Thai traditional medicines, the ripe pods have been used as a laxative drug by boiling with water and the mixture is filtered through a muslin cloth. The filtrate is evaporated and the soft extract is made as small pills. Every part of this plant is recognized for its medicinal properties. While research on Cassia fistula has provided valuable insights into its potential benefits and applications, there are some limitations to consider viz Limited Clinical Studies, Standardization and Quality Control, Mechanistic Understanding, Lack of Long-term Safety Data, Limited Comparative Studies, Regulatory Challenges, It is important to recognize these limitations when interpreting and applying the existing research on Cassia fistula. Further investigation, including well-designed clinical trials and comprehensive safety assessments, is necessary to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of Cassia fistula in various applications.

Keywords: Cassia Fistula Linn, Leaves, Pharmacology, Phytochemicals.