Chaksu

Cassia absus

Traditionally attributed effects: bitter, astringent, lowers blood pressure; leaves for cough; seeds for ringworm, skin diseases, conjunctivitis and eye inflammation.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Powder 1–3 g; seeds externally.

Use in traditions

The name chaksu means 'eye': in Ayurveda and Unani medicine the ground seeds were worked into eye powders (kohl) for conjunctivitis. In Egypt and Sudan, too, the seeds are used for eye complaints. Sanskrit name: Chaksu.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Bitter, astringent, lowers blood pressure; leaves for cough; seeds for ringworm, skin diseases, conjunctivitis and eye inflammation.

Preparation and amount

Powder 1–3 g; seeds externally.

Ways to prepare herbs: Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Africa →