CASSIA AURICULATA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE NUTRITIONAL, PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Abstract

Cassia auriculata, a notable medicinal plant deeply rooted in traditional medicine, plays a significant role in the Ayurvedic systems of India and Sri Lanka. The different parts of the plant including flowers, leaves, barks, roots, and seeds were revealing substantial quantities of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, crude fiber, and total soluble sugars, along with minor amounts of calcium, zinc, sodium, magnesium, copper, iron, and vitamins. Beyond its nutritional attributes, C. auriculata exhibits a diverse phytochemical profile, encompassing alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, emodin, and anthraquinone derivatives, each contributing to a spectrum of health benefits. The rich phytochemical composition imparts a broad range of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicinal practices, C. auriculata has been effectively employed to alleviate various ailments such as type II diabetes, skin disorders, eye conditions, liver maladies, and urinary tract disorders. The current review seeks to provide updated insights into the nutritional, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of C. auriculata, with special emphasis on its clinical implications for managing a range of health issues, thereby offering valuable information for researchers, and healthcare professionals.