Botanical Overview
Senna auriculata, also known as Cassia auriculata, belongs to the Fabaceae family. Commonly called Avaram Senna, Matura Tea Tree, and Tanner’s Cassia, it is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. The plant’s flower, leaf, root, and bark are traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
Energetics
Senna auriculata is considered cooling in temperature with drying moisture. Its taste profile is primarily bitter and astringent. It has a tonifying effect, particularly influencing the qi.
Primary Actions
- Antidiabetic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Laxative
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Skin infections
- Diabetes
- Urinary disorders
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Hyperglycemia
- Chronic skin inflammation
- Constipation
- Urinary tract infections
Ayurveda
- Excess blood sugar
- Heat in blood
- Skin eruptions
- Urinary difficulties
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus)
- Vatarakta (arthritis/gout)
Unani
- Excessive thirst
- Skin diseases
- Constipation
- Urinary disorders
Syndromes
- Imtila bil dam (blood congestion)
- Dystemprament-related disorders
TCM
No documented traditional Chinese medicine uses identified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains bioactive compounds such as anthraquinones, flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins which contribute to its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and laxative effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of flowers and leaves 10-20 g daily
- Powder 1-3 g, 1-2 times daily
- Infusion using 1-2 teaspoons of dried plant material
Safety & Contraindications
Senna auriculata is generally considered safe for traditional use. However, it should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. It can cause gastrointestinal irritation and laxative effects and is contraindicated in intestinal obstruction. Potential interactions include additive effects with laxatives and potentiation with antidiabetic drugs.
Astrological Correspondences
No confirmed planetary or elemental rulers have been identified for Senna auriculata in reputable traditions.
Selected References
- CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs (Gurib-Fakim A., 2011)
- Plant Resources of South-East Asia No. 12(2): Medicinal and poisonous plants 2 (Perry LM, 1980)
- Pharmacological evaluation of Senna auriculata in diabetes and inflammation (Kumar Appa Rao et al., 2002)
- Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2016)