Cassia fistula (ARagvadHA)

In vedic literature the dried branches of Aragvadha are used for ritual performance (Ap. Gr. 7/18/7). Among Brihat Trayi, Caraka emphasized its utility in Kushtha and described a chapter in its name- “Aragvadhadiyam” (C.S.Su.2). Several external applications containing Aragvadha are mentioned in this chapter. It is important to note that the leaves are repeatedly used in these conditions but not the fruit pulp. Caraka seperately specified the utility of Aragvadha (fruit pulp) as a laxative/purgative (C.S.Su.25). Sarnghdara quoted it as an example for Sramsana group of drugs. Kaiyadeva identified the properties of leaves, flowers and fruit pulp of Aragvadha and mentioned them seperately.

Controversial Studies– Since Dhanvantari and Raja Nighantus quote two varieties of Aragvadha (Aragvadha & Kanikara), Arevata has become one of the controversial plants. Bhagiratha Swami explains that where Arevata is in masculine gender it should be taken as Aragvadha and when it is in neutral gender it should be taken as Palevata. Bapalalji ponts out that Arevata is not described by caraka among the fruits but Paravata is mentioned. Both these are absent in Amarakosa. These terms are however used in Dhanvantari Nighantu. It may be identified as Garcinia mangostan. The synonym Tamala given for Aragvadha variety by Dhanvantari Nighantu justifies the identity. Though some consider Guva fruit (Psidium guyava Linn.) as Palevatam, it is to be identified as ‘Perukam’ according to Nighantu Ratnakara.

Different varieties– In Dhanvantari Nighantu Aragvadha and Karnikara have been mentioned as two different varieties. The same opinion is expressed in Raja Nighantu also. Vagbhata had described two varieties of Palevatam viz., Madhura (sweet) and Amla (sour) varieties (A.H. Su.6/135).

Botanical Description– It is moderate-sized tree, 3.7-4.8 m. in height. Bark- greenish-grey or brick-red. Leaves- paripinnate, 5.1-12.2 cm long; leaflets 8.16, acuminate, ovate-lanceolate. Flowers- in lax pendulous racemes, yellow, fragrant. Pods- cylindrical, pendulous, indehiscent, 25-30 cm long and 1.5-3.0 cm diam. Seeds- numerous, small, flat, smooth, yellowish-grey, surrounded by black pulp when ripen (Flowers in March-May and fruits in May).

Distribution–Grows/cultivated in many parts of India.

Major chemical constituents–

Seeds- sugars, galactomannan

Flowers- fistulin, leucopelargonidin tetramer, kaempferol

Pods- fistulic acid

Bark & Heart wood- barbaloin, fistucacidin, rhein etc.

Leaves- Rhein, sennosides A & B