Description :
Cassia alata also known as Senna alata, is a widely distributed herb of the Leguminosae family. This Cassia is commonly known as candle bush, craw-craw plant, acapulo, ringworm bush, or ringworm plant. Cassia alata plant is commonly found in Asia and Africa, and has many local names. It is an annual and occasionally biannual herb, with an average height of 1 to 4 m, burgeoning in sunlit and humid zones. In Ayurvedic, Sinhala, Chinese, and African traditional medicine, various parts of Cassia alata have shown diverse therapeutic activities in diseases control. Scientific study has shown presence of arrays of bioactive chemical compounds in Cassia alata extract. Some of the reported chemical constituents are phenolics, anthraquinones, fatty acids, natural steroids, and terpenoids. There are many published articles connected to diverse therapeutic activities of Cassia alata which are mainly related to antibacterial, antidiabetic, antilipogenic, antifungal, antioxidant, dermatophytic, antihyperlipidemic, and anthelmintic activities among others. Few studies have also reported its antimalarial activities. Cassia alata supports adequate bowel cleansing as purgative due to presence of anthroquinones, as well as helps to expel intestinal worms. Cassia alata helps to combat harmful bacteria’s and fungal infections. Regular use of Cassia herb helps to control high blood sugar and lowers harmful lipid levels. Cassia alata is rich in antioxidants which helps to protect cellular damage and provide nutrition. Currently, the leaves, flowers, and bark of cassia alata are used for treating various kinds of skin infections and diseases.
Applications of Cassia Alata Extract :
- Antifungal Treatment: Cassia Alata extract is widely used for its antifungal properties. It can be applied topically to treat fungal infections such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and fungal skin conditions. The extract’s active compounds help inhibit the growth and spread of fungi, providing relief from itching, redness, and irritation.
- Antibacterial Benefits: The antibacterial activity of Cassia Alata extract makes it useful for addressing bacterial infections. It may be applied topically to promote wound healing, prevent bacterial growth on the skin, and aid in the treatment of bacterial skin infections.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Cassia Alata extract exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe skin conditions characterized by inflammation, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Its application may help reduce redness, swelling, and itching, providing relief and supporting skin healing.
- Skin Care Products: Cassia Alata extract is a common ingredient in various skin care products. It is included in creams, ointments, lotions, and serums designed to address specific skin concerns, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, and inflammatory skin conditions.
- Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine systems, Cassia Alata has been used for its medicinal properties. The extract may be incorporated into traditional remedies and formulations aimed at treating various skin ailments and promoting skin health.
