Golden shower

Cassia fistula

Traditionally attributed effects: laxative, tonic, fever-reducing; fruit pulp mildly laxative (safe for children and pregnant women); leaf for ringworm, chilblains, rheumatism, facial paralysis; root for fever and heart disease.

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

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; seed powder 1–2 g; fruit pulp as a laxative; leaf juice or paste externally.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Argbhada. In spring the tree bears clusters of yellow flowers and is the state flower of Kerala, where the flowers are offered at the New Year festival Vishu. The sweet pulp from the long pods (aragvadha) is a mild laxative, also for children. In Unani medicine it is called khiyar shambar.

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

Laxative, tonic, fever-reducing; fruit pulp mildly laxative (safe for children and pregnant women); leaf for ringworm, chilblains, rheumatism, facial paralysis; root for fever and heart disease.

Preparation and amount

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; seed powder 1–2 g; fruit pulp as a laxative; leaf juice or paste externally.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Compress, poultice and paste Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Asia →