Abstract

Cassia fistula Linn, a semi-wild Indian labrum has been used in the treatment of various diseases in different parts of the world since time immemorial. In Indian literature there has been multiple descriptions regarding its usefulness in the treatment of various diseases. Some authors have reported its antibacterial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic potentials. Many other authors have indicated towards the free radical scavenging and antioxidant potential of C. fistula both in vitro as well as in vivo. Despite this valuable available information on this plant there appears a vast virgin area of research on this plant to find out the real natural treasure. The antioxidant and hepatoprotective nature of Cassia fistulaseems to depend on the total phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavanoid contents of this labrum. This paper reviews all the experimental studies so far performed on C. fistula. This is likely to have important implications on designing any future research on this plant for their potential utility in herbal drug system or in nutritional supplements.

Key words: Cassia fistula Linn, antibacterial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic.