Magazines

Subscribe to our print & digital magazines now

Subscribe

Amaltas: Uses, Advantages, Side Effects, and More!

Explore the uses, advantages, and possible drawbacks of Amaltas, also known as Indian Laburnum, for a comprehensive understanding of its effects.

Updated on: 15 August, 2023 4:36 PM IST By: Shivangi Rai
Amaltas, also known as Cassia fistula or Golden shower tree is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine known to be useful in a variety of health conditions. (Image Courtesy- Unsplash)

Amaltas, recognized by its botanical name Cassia fistula but also commonly referred to as the Golden Shower tree, holds a significant position in Ayurvedic medicine due to its wide-ranging health benefits.

This tree is associated with several names, with the most prevalent being Pupping Pipe, Golden Shower, Aragvadha, and Indian Laburnum.

Amaltas is prominently found across India and Pakistan, and it also occurs in select regions of Southeast Asia. Its valuable therapeutic attributes have led to its cultivation in numerous areas of India, where it is highly regarded for its positive effects on health.

Amaltas: Potential Uses

1. For Constipation- Amaltas has been suggested as a potential solution for constipation. The emulsion from Amaltas appears to have positive effects in treating functional constipation in children over a span of three weeks. It is also considered a mild laxative option for pregnant women. One common practice involves mixing Amaltas pulp with hot water and consuming it to alleviate constipation. Nevertheless, additional scientific research is needed to validate these claims.

2. For Heart- While Amaltas may offer potential benefits such as strengthening heart muscles, reducing blood cholesterol, and preventing lipid build-up, these effects require further confirmation in human studies. It's essential to emphasize that proper diagnosis and specialized medical intervention by a qualified doctor are essential for addressing heart conditions effectively. Thus, consulting a doctor is strongly recommended.

3. For Skin Disease- Amaltas leaves can be utilized for skin conditions like ringworms, eczema, and eruptions. The root may aid in dermatological problems, and the fruit pulp has shown promise in treating skin issues and worms. While Amaltas leaves might be effective for erysipelas, further research is essential to confirm these benefits. It's crucial to refrain from using Amaltas without proper medical guidance.

4. For Suppressing Cough- Amaltas potentially possesses antitussive properties, where its pods can be burned, ashed, and combined with salt and honey for potential cough relief. This mixture might also offer some efficacy against fevers. Additionally, Amaltas leaves are suggested to have cough-relieving capabilities. The potential immune-boosting and infection-protecting qualities of Amaltas underscore the requirement for further scientific validation. To obtain accurate guidance, consulting a medical professional is strongly advised.

5. For Urinary Problems- Amaltas holds the potential for addressing urination-related issues such as painful urination, urinary retention, and abdominal obstructions. However, additional scientific research is necessary to validate these assertions. Consulting a doctor is advisable for proper guidance and prescriptions. While some studies suggest the advantages of amaltas in diverse conditions, these findings remain incomplete, underscoring the requirement for more comprehensive research to ascertain the full scope of amaltas' benefits on human health.

Amaltas: Ways to Utilize

Available in different forms, one can utilize amaltas in various ways:

  • Fruit pulp 

  • Flower powder 

  • Amaltas Vati (tablets) 

  • Amaltas Avaleha (syrup) 

  • Decoction (essence) 

Amaltas: Side Effects

In most cases, Amaltas is considered safe for children; however, excessive consumption of Amaltas leaves and barks can lead to adverse effects such as:

  • Vomiting 

  • Abdominal pain

  • Cramps 

  • Nausea

Therefore, it is crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations when using Amaltas. Your doctor will provide guidance on the appropriate form and dosage to ensure safe consumption.

Amaltas: Precautions

  1. Eating any part of Amaltas in its natural state could be harmful.

  2. If you take too much of this medicine, you might experience severe diarrhoea and dysentery.

  3. It's best for infants and pregnant women to stay away from using Amaltas.

Combining with Other Drugs:

Due to the limited availability of comprehensive data regarding the potential interactions of amaltas with various medications, it is advisable to seek guidance from a medical professional before considering its use. This is particularly important if you are currently taking other medications or undergoing treatment for any specific medical condition.

Test Your Knowledge on International Day for Biosphere Reserves Quiz. Take a quiz