# Aragwadha (Cassia fistula)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/aragwadha
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Cassia fistula, Golden Shower Tree, Purging Cassia, Indian Laburnum, Pudding Pipe Tree, Amaltas, Sonali, Rajvriksha

## Overview

Cassia fistula contains anthraquinones and sennosides that stimulate intestinal motility and demonstrate [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties. The bark and pulp have been traditionally used for gastrointestinal disorders and skin conditions.

## Health Benefits

• Relieves chronic constipation: A 2019 RCT showed 75% reduction in symptom severity with 5g/day pulp powder (limited evidence quality)
• Supports [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health): Small pilot study demonstrated efficacy of bark paste against tinea infections (preliminary evidence)
• Reduces [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation): Animal studies (2017) showed decreased paw edema in rats with ethanolic extracts (preclinical evidence only)
• Traditional detoxification support: Used for 2000+ years in Ayurveda for gentle purgation and removing Ama (traditional evidence)
• Potential digestive soothing: Mucilaginous polysaccharides in pulp may calm GI tract (mechanism-based, no clinical trials)

## Mechanism of Action

The anthraquinone glycosides in Cassia fistula are hydrolyzed by colonic bacteria to release sennosides, which irritate the intestinal mucosa and stimulate peristalsis. Flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol inhibit cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis. The [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against fungi appears mediated by tannins and phenolic compounds that disrupt cell membrane integrity.

## Clinical Summary

A 2019 randomized controlled trial (n=60) found 5g daily of Cassia fistula pulp powder reduced chronic constipation symptom severity by 75% over 4 weeks, though study quality was limited. A small pilot study showed topical bark paste was effective against tinea infections, but sample size and methodology were not robust. Most evidence comes from animal studies demonstrating [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects, while human clinical data remains sparse and preliminary.

## Nutritional Profile

Aragwadha (Cassia fistula) nutritional and phytochemical composition is primarily documented for its fruit pulp, bark, leaves, and seeds, with limited standardized macronutrient data from clinical-grade analysis.

**Fruit Pulp (per 100g, approximate):**
- Moisture: 20–30g
- Total carbohydrates: 55–65g (predominantly mucilaginous polysaccharides and simple sugars including glucose and fructose)
- Crude fiber: 8–12g (contributes to laxative mechanism via bulk-forming action)
- Protein: 1.5–2.5g (low biological value; amino acid profile not fully characterized)
- Fat: 0.5–1.2g
- Ash/mineral content: 2–4g

**Key Micronutrients (fruit pulp, approximate):**
- Potassium: 600–900mg/100g (relatively high; bioavailability moderate)
- Calcium: 80–120mg/100g
- Phosphorus: 40–60mg/100g
- Iron: 1.5–3.0mg/100g
- Magnesium: 30–50mg/100g
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): 10–20mg/100g (variable; degrades with processing)
- B-vitamins: Trace amounts of thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2) reported; no precise concentrations established

**Primary Bioactive Compounds:**
- Sennosides A and B (anthraquinone glycosides): 0.5–1.5% w/w in pulp; primary pharmacologically active constituents responsible for cathartic/laxative action; act on colonic mucosa to stimulate peristalsis
- Rhein, aloe-emodin, and fistulic acid: anthraquinone aglycones present in pulp and leaves at trace to low concentrations (~0.1–0.4%); hepatotoxic potential at high doses noted in animal models
- Tannins (hydrolyzable and condensed): 3–8% in bark; primarily gallic acid derivatives; contribute to astringent and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties
- Flavonoids: Kaempferol, luteolin, and quercetin identified in leaves and flowers; approximate total flavonoid content 1.5–3.0% dry weight in leaf extracts
- Saponins: Present in seeds and bark (~1–2% dry weight); exact profile not fully characterized
- Oxalic acid: Present in leaves and seeds; may reduce mineral bioavailability (calcium, iron) through chelation — a relevant bioavailability limiting factor
- Mucilage (galactomannan-type polysaccharides): ~15–20% of dry pulp weight; responsible for bulk-forming laxative effect and [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) potential
- Fistuacacidin and leucoanthocyanidins: identified in heartwood; limited quantitative data
- Beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol: phytosterols present in seed oil at low concentrations

**Seed Composition (approximate):**
- Protein: 18–22% (relatively higher than pulp; limited digestibility data)
- Fixed oils/fat: 5–8% (fatty acid profile includes oleic and linoleic acids)
- Starch: 30–40%

**Bioavailability Notes:**
- Anthraquinone glycosides (sennosides) are poorly absorbed in the small intestine; they are hydrolyzed by colonic bacteria to active aglycones (rhein anthrone), which exert local action — systemic bioavailability is intentionally limited
- High oxalic acid content in leaves and seeds reduces bioavailability of co-ingested calcium and non-heme iron
- Tannins in bark preparations may complex with dietary proteins and reduce protein digestibility if consumed with food
- The mucilaginous fiber may slow gastric emptying and modestly reduce postprandial glucose absorption
- No pharmacokinetic studies in humans have characterized absolute bioavailability of flavonoid or saponin fractions from this specific species

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied: 3-6g/day pulp powder for constipation (5g/day in 2019 RCT). Traditional preparations: 15-20g stem bark decoction for constipation; 20-30g leaf juice/decoction for parasites (20ml children, 40ml adults) for 5-6 days. No standardized extracts available. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Cassia fistula may cause gastrointestinal irritation, cramping, and diarrhea at higher doses due to its laxative properties. It may potentiate the effects of anticoagulant medications and other laxatives, requiring dose adjustments. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential uterine stimulation from anthraquinones. Individuals with [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) bowel disease or intestinal obstruction should avoid use.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence for Aragvadha remains limited, with one 2019 RCT in India examining 5g/day pulp powder for chronic constipation achieving 75% symptom reduction (no PMID provided). A small pilot study showed topical bark paste efficacy against tinea infections, though study design and size were unspecified. Most evidence remains preclinical, including a 2017 animal study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrating [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects (no PMID available).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Aragvadha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for approximately 2,000 years, documented in classical texts like Charaka Samhita and by Vagbhata as a mild purgative (mrudu virechana) for fever, skin diseases, and detoxification. The herb balances Pitta and Kapha doshas and appears in traditional formulations like Aragwadhadi Kashayam and Aragwadharishta.

## Synergistic Combinations

Triphala, Psyllium husk, Aloe vera, Licorice root, Ginger

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of Cassia fistula for constipation?

Clinical studies used 5g daily of pulp powder for chronic constipation. Start with lower doses (1-2g) to assess tolerance, as higher amounts may cause cramping and diarrhea.

### How long does Cassia fistula take to work as a laxative?

The laxative effects typically occur within 6-12 hours of consumption as colonic bacteria convert anthraquinone glycosides to active sennosides. Peak effects are usually seen within 24 hours.

### Can Cassia fistula interact with diabetes medications?

Preliminary animal studies suggest Cassia fistula may lower blood glucose levels, potentially enhancing the effects of antidiabetic drugs. Monitor blood sugar closely and consult healthcare providers before use.

### Is Cassia fistula safe for long-term use?

Long-term use of anthraquinone-containing laxatives like Cassia fistula may cause electrolyte imbalances and dependence. Use should be limited to short-term treatment periods under medical supervision.

### What part of Cassia fistula plant is most effective?

The pulp contains the highest concentration of laxative compounds (sennosides), while the bark is traditionally used for antimicrobial applications. Pulp extracts show the most clinical evidence for digestive benefits.

### Is Cassia fistula safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Cassia fistula is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potent laxative properties, which may stimulate uterine contractions and increase miscarriage risk. There is insufficient clinical evidence on safety during breastfeeding, so pregnant and nursing women should avoid supplementation and consult healthcare providers before use. Traditional Ayurvedic texts recommend avoiding this ingredient during gestation.

### What is the difference between Cassia fistula pulp and pod extracts?

The pulp (endocarp) is the most commonly used and studied form, containing higher concentrations of anthraquinone glycosides responsible for laxative effects, while the pod and bark extracts have different phytochemical profiles with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Clinical evidence for constipation relief primarily supports the pulp powder form at 5g daily. Pod and bark extracts are less researched but traditionally used for skin and digestive support.

### How strong is the clinical evidence supporting Cassia fistula's health claims?

Evidence for constipation relief is moderate, based on one 2019 RCT showing 75% symptom reduction, but larger multi-center trials are needed for stronger validation. Skin health claims rely on small pilot studies with preliminary evidence only, while anti-inflammatory benefits are restricted to animal models without human clinical trials. Overall, Cassia fistula has the strongest evidence for laxative effects but limited high-quality research for other traditional applications.

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