Cassia fistula Linn. (Amulthus)- An Important Medicinal Plant: AReview of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry andPharmacological Properties

Abstract

Medicinal herbs are moving from fringe to mainstrea m use with a greater number of people seeking remedies and health approaches free from si de effects caused by synthetic chemicals. India officially recognizes over 3000 plants for th eir medicinal value. It is generally estimated that over 6000 plants in India are in use in tradit ional, folk and herbal medicine. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review on the phyto chemical and pharmacological aspects of Cassia fistula. It is obtained from deciduous and m ixed-monsoon forests throughout greater parts of India, ascending to 1300 m in outer Himala ya, is widely used in traditional medicinal system of India has been reported to possess hepato protective, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, antifungal and also used to check wounds healing an d antibacterial. It is known as a rich source of tannins, flavanoids and glycosides. The innumera ble medicinal properties and therapeutic uses of Cassia Fistula as well as its phytochemical investigations prove its importance as a valuable medicinal plant.