Cassia fistula (Casse muette): benefits, dosage, contraindications
Other name(s)
Canéficier, false carob tree
Scientific name(s)
Cassia fistula
Family or group:
Plants
Active ingredients:
Tannins
Anthraquinones
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Constipation ✪✪✪✪✪
A systematic review examined the efficacy of Cassia fistula emulsion in the treatment of constipation. Two studies were included, both of which presented a high risk of bias. nnAnalyses showed greater treatment success and an increased frequency of defecation with Cassia fistula emulsion compared with the control treatment. In addition, Cassia fistula proved more effective than mineral oil and as effective as polyethylene glycol (PEG is an osmotic laxative used for the treatment of constipation). nnThe most frequent side effects were diarrhea.nn
Posologie
Oral administration: bark, fruit
4 - 8 g
Adults
Properties
Laxative
The fruit of Cassia fistula is used for its laxative effect. Indeed, the pulp is included in preparations indicated for the management of constipation. It is a relatively mild intestinal stimulant thanks to its high content of sennosides. This laxative effect manifests in two ways: on one hand, by modifying colonic motility to accelerate intestinal transit, and on the other hand, by altering colonic absorption and secretion, causing an accumulation of fluid and consequently diarrhea.
Usages associés
Antipyretic
The bud extract of C. fistula as well as the pod extract prepared in methanol show significant antipyretic properties in rat studies. The doses used ranged from 200 to 400 mg/kg of body weight.nnThe results of this study are consistent with those obtained with acetaminophen, a medication known for its antipyretic effects, used to treat fever.nn
Antifungal
Extracts of fruits, leaves, and flowers of Cassia fistula have demonstrated significant antifungal properties. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts, in particular, showed notable activity against various fungi, including Candida albicans and Alternaria solani. nnThe efficacy is comparable to that of standard antifungals such as clotrimazole.nn
Safe dosage
Adults 12 years and older: 4 g - 8 g (pulp)
Some sources recommend between 4 and 8 g of the fruit pulp. Prolonged use is not recommended.
Precautions
Pregnant women: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Children up to 12 years: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Breastfeeding women: avoid
The use of Cassia fistula is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
