Botanical Name:- Cassia fistula Linn.
Family:- Leguminosae
Hindi Name:- अमलतास
Morphology:-Its tree is of medium size, but sometimes big trees are also seen. The wood is very strong. 4 to 8 pairs of leaves grow on long branches of 20 to 42 cm, which are 3.5 to 8 cm long and oval in shape. Dense clusters of bright golden yellow flowers with five petals grow on long branches of 25-50 cm, which beautify the trees from the end of Chait to Jyeshtha. In Jeth, green pods like thin needles emerge and by the end of monsoon, 30-50 cm long, 2.5 cm thick green pods are seen hanging. Then they turn black by the end of Hemant and ripen in spring. Inside the pods, there are thin, round layers, as big as an old 25 paise coin, covered with black juice and between the layers, there are seeds like amaranth seeds.
Properties and Uses:- (1) The pulp of the Cassia fistula is astringent, anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. It is the best among mild purgatives. It is used in fever in delicate, paediatric, pregnant and delicate women. For mild purgative, as compared to its independent use, Avaleha (Confectio senna) made with senna is better as it does not cause cramps, uproar, colic, flatulence etc. which occur when taken in large quantities when used independently. Gulkand made from it is also used. It is used for purgation when the heat of the blood increases or when diseases like gout and rheumatism occur due to accumulation of stool. Those who always complain of constipation they are made to consume it regularly in small quantities. With prolonged use, the colour of urine becomes dark brown. It can be used in case of fever or diabetes if purgation is required. It is mixed with coffee essence. Its paste is applied on rheumatism, gout and ulcers etc.
(2) Its seeds are emetic and powder of 5-7 seeds is given for vomiting.
(3) Doing gargle with decoction of its bark reduces swelling of the nodes in the throat.
(4) The juice of its leaves is given in case of pain and it is rubbed on the part which has been injured. Its application on ringworm and swelling of boils is beneficial.
(5) Its root is a strong laxative and antipyretic.