Cassia Fistula: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications
Other name(s)
Golden Shower, Indian Laburnum
Scientific name(s)
Cassia fistula
Family or group:
Plants
Active ingredients:
Tannins
Anthraquinones
Indications
Rating methodology
EFSA approval.
Constipation ✪✪✪✪✪
A systematic review examined the effectiveness of Cassia fistula emulsion in the treatment of constipation. Two studies were included, both presenting a significant risk of bias. Analyses showed greater treatment success and increased frequency of defecation with Cassia fistula emulsion compared to control treatment. Moreover, Cassia fistula proved to be more effective than mineral oil and as effective as polyethylene glycol (PEG is an osmotic laxative used for the treatment of constipation). The most frequent side effects were diarrhea.
Posologie
Oral: bark, fruit
4 - 8 g
Adults
Properties
Laxative
Cassia fistula fruit is used for its laxative effect. Indeed, the pulp is included in preparations intended for the management of constipation. It is a mild stimulant for the intestines due to its high sennoside content. This laxative effect manifests in two ways: firstly, by altering colon motility to speed up intestinal transit, and secondly, by changing colonic absorption and secretion, leading to fluid accumulation and consequently diarrhea.
Usages associés
Antipyretic
The extract of C. fistula buds as well as the pod extract prepared in methanol exhibit significant antipyretic properties according to studies on rats. The doses used ranged from 200 to 400 mg/kg of body weight. The results of this study correspond to those obtained with paracetamol, a drug known for its antipyretic effects used against fever.
Antifungal
The extracts of fruits, leaves, and flowers of Cassia fistula have shown important antifungal properties. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts, in particular, have shown significant activity against various fungi, including Candida albicans and Alternaria solani. The efficacy is comparable to that of standard antifungal agents like clotrimazole.
Safety dosage
Adult from 12 years: 4 g - 8 g (pulp)
Some resources recommend between 4 and 8 g of fruit pulp. Prolonged use is not recommended.
Precautions
Pregnant woman: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Child up to 12 years: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for children under 12 years.
Breastfeeding woman: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
