Purging cassia

Purging Cassia (Cassia fistula), also known as the golden shower tree, is a flowering plant species in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and adjacent regions of Southeast Asia. It is the national tree of Thailand, and its flower is Thailand's national flower. It is also the state flower of Kerala in India and of immense importance amongst the Malayali population. It is a popular ornamental plant and is also used in herbal medicine.

Description

Purging Cassia is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows up to 20 meters tall. It has a straight trunk with smooth, gray bark. The leaves are pinnate and arranged in opposite pairs. The flowers are bright yellow and arranged in pendulous racemes. The fruit is a long, cylindrical pod containing several seeds.

Cultivation

Purging Cassia is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. The tree can be propagated from seeds, which should be soaked in water for at least 24 hours before planting.

Uses

In addition to its use as an ornamental plant, Purging Cassia has several other uses. The pulp of the fruit is used in traditional medicine as a laxative, hence the name "Purging Cassia". The wood is used for making furniture and for construction. The flowers are used in religious ceremonies in India and Thailand.

Medicinal Uses

In traditional medicine, Purging Cassia is used to treat a variety of ailments. The pulp of the fruit is used as a laxative and to treat constipation. The leaves are used to treat skin diseases and wounds. The bark is used to treat fever and inflammation.

Conservation Status

Purging Cassia is not considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all species, it is affected by habitat loss and other environmental pressures.

See Also

• Cassia (genus)
• Fabaceae
• Traditional medicine
• Conservation status