Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry & Pharmacology of Cassia Javanica Linn. : A Review

Cassia javanica Linn. is a small and medium sized tree, belongs to the plant family Leguminosae (Fabaceae). It blossoms in the spring season, mainly from the month of April to September. It is commonly known as the apple blossom cassia, pink lady, apple blossom shower and java shower. It is widely cultivated in the tropical regions of Asia. The plant consists of descending branches and it produces mass of gorgeous flowers. The fruits ripen in the fall. Studies have shown the presence of various phytochemical constituents mainly anthraquinone glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols, tannins, saponins and reducing sugars in different parts of the plant. C. javanica possesses various pharmacological activities antidiabetic, antioxidant, anticancer and antimycotic activities. It has long been used in traditional medicine to cure various diseases. It has been used as antipyretic, laxative and antimalarial drug. It is known to decrease virulence of pathogenic organisms. It is used in the treatment of gastric pain and cold. Due to complex nature of the disease there is a worldwide need for an ideal drug therefore, there are many antidiabetic herbs recommended in traditional medicaments. The presented review summarizes the information concerning the morphology, chemical constituents, uses and pharmacological activities of the plant.