Enumerations on phytochemical, pharmacological and ethnobotanical properties of Cassia fistula Linn: yellow shower

Abstract

Indian Laburnum or Yellow shower (Cassia fistula Linn.) of Fabaceae (caesalpiniaceae) is a semi-wild deciduous and ornamental tree with long and cylindrical fruits. It is a native of tropical Asia widely cultivated in South Africa, Mexico, East Africa and Brazil. Its species are native to the Indian subcontinent and adjacent regions of Southeast Asia. It is suppose to closely associate with the Mullai (forest) region of Sangam landscape. It ranges from southern Pakistan eastward throughout India to Myanmar Thailand and south Sri Lanka. The plant parts have medicinal uses and important for antimicrobial, anthelmintic and phytochemical aspects for its pod, leaves bark and seed extracts. Pharmacologically it is hypoglycaemic, anticancer, abortifacient, anticolic, antifertility, estrogenic, laxative, antimicrobial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, smooth muscle stimulant, antiarthritic, antitussive, purgative, analgesic, antiviral, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity. It is known as rich source of tannins, flavonoids and glycosides. It is also used to cure burns, constipation, convulsions, diarrhea, dysuria and epilepsy. Ayurvedic medicines recognize it as carminative, laxative and to cure leprosy, skin diseases and syphilis. This article provides a comprehensive review on plant profile, morphology, traditional or ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of plant.