Wednesday, 8 October 2025

Senna alata (L.) Roxb

 

Family: Fabaceae

Synonym: Cassia alata L.

Vernacular name: Chakrathakara, Elakayam, Malamthakara, Puzhukkadithakara, Seema-agathi

Habit: Shrub

Habitat: Along riversides and margins of ponds, common in roadsides and plain areas

Distribution: Pantropical

Flowering and Fruiting: September-January

Key identification features: An erect shrub.  Its inflorescence is terminal or axillary, forming many-flowered spicate racemes. The flowers are yellow, with bracts petaloid. The plant produces linear pods, containing numerous compressed dark brown  seeds.

Uses: Senna alata is traditionally used to treat skin diseases such as ringworm, fungal infections, and eczema. Its leaves and bark act as a laxative, and the plant also possesses antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, while its bright yellow flowers make it popular as an ornamental plant.

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