An Overview, Dermatological Uses, Side effects and Risk factor

Family: Leguminosae
Latin name: Cassia tora
Sushruta samhita: ऊर्ध्वभागहर
English name: Ringworm plant
Hindi name: चकवड़, पवाँड़
Taste: Pungent
Nature: Hot
Parts used: Leaves, Seeds, Roots. Fruit is gentler than leaf.

Description:
It is a perennial plant that grows up to 90 Cm. It grows in temperate climate.

Phytochemical constituents:
Anthraquinones, Cadherine, Anthrones, Rhein, Chrysophanol, Emodin, Glucose, Galactose, Linoleic acid, Palmitic acid, Minerals, Sitosterol.

Cadherine plays a vital role in cell adhesion.

Mode of action: 
Primary

• Kapha Vata shamak

Secondary

• External application peels off the skin and counteracts poison
• Antiviral, Antibacterial, Antimicrobial

Tertiary

• Nervine tonic
• Anti-leukemic
• Anti-periodic
• Laxative, Anthelmintic, Hepatoprotective
• Cardio tonic
• Expectorant
• Oxytocic

Therapeutic Benefits: 
Primary

• Snake bite

Secondary

• External application in Skin diseases, Eczema, Seborrheic dermatitis, Leprosy, Ringworm
• Constipation, Irritable bowel syndrome, Piles, Colic, Bloating

Tertiary

• Obesity
• Leprosy, Ringworm
• Hair problems
• Ascaris

Side effects and Risk factors:

1. Stomach discomfort, cramps.
2. Don’t use it for more than two weeks. Long term use can cause bowel function disorders, heart function disorders, muscle weakness, liver damage, and other harmful effects.
3. LIKELY UNSAFE for children under 2 years of age.
4. LIKELY SAFE in Pregnancy and Breast feeding for short term use.

​         – Dr Malika Ahuja