Abstract

CASSIA FISTULA –PROMISING HERBAL MEDICINE FOR PSORIASIS: A REVIEW

Fathima Mohamed Kunhi* and Arun Kumar K.V.

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Abstract

Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that ingeminates itselt with repeated proliferation of keratinocytes. It globally strikes 2-5% population on an average, which is having no permanent cure. A wide range of synthetic therapeutic agents have also been reported to cause psoriasis as their side effect. Herbal drugs by virtue of their safe nature and easy availability may lend themselves as potential anti-psoriatic moieties.[1] Cassia fistula linn also known as golden shower tree is one of the most commonly used plants in Unani and Ayurvedic medicines, useful against skin diseases with anti-psoriatic effects. The plant has documented to possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antidiabetic as well as hepatoprotective activity.[3] In Ayurvedic medicine systems, the seeds are attributed with antibilious, aperitif, carminative, and laxative properties while the root is used for adenopathy, burning sensations, leprosy, skin diseases and syphilis. The bark and leaves are used for skin diseases like psoriasis.[3]

Keywords: Psoriasis, Cassia fistula, Herbal treatment.