Ethnomedicinal, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Cassia fistula: A medicinal plant

Abstract

Cassia fistula L., locally known as amaltas, is a deciduous flowering ornamental tree of the family Fabaceae. It is commonly called a “golden shower” for its bright yellow flowers. C. fistula is a time-tested remedy and is a well-accepted drug in Ayurvedic and Unani Pharmacopoeia, as well as in the traditional medicinal system in India. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the botany and ethnomedicinal uses of this plant. The various plant parts are used medicinally by local people throughout their geographical distribution as remedies for various diseases. In this review, the available information on the phytochemistry and biological studies of different parts of C. fistula is assessed and systematically organised. All the literature on C. fistula was critically reviewed with an emphasis on the qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of the extract. Chemically, C. fistula is enriched with phenolic compounds, viz., flavonoids, anthraquinones, and chromones. The bioactivity is attributed to the plant's secondary metabolites. Many commercial formulations have been standardised by researchers with respect to the plant part used in medicine for their enhanced activity.