Cassia abbreviata (Long-tail cassia)

🌍 Origin and Distribution

• Scientific Name: Cassia abbreviata
• Family: Fabaceae (legume family)
• Common Names: Long-tail cassia, Sjambok pod
• Native to: Sub-Saharan Africa (found in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa)
• Habitat: Savannas, woodlands, and dry forests

🌳 Botanical Description

Type: Small to medium-sized tree

• Height: Grows up to 10–15 meters
• Leaves: Compound leaves with small leaflets
• Flowers: Bright yellow flowers in clusters
• Fruits: Long, dark brown seed pods that hang down
• Heartwood: Dark and rich in plant chemicals

🧪 Chemical Components

• Guibourtinidol: A flavonoid compound found in the heartwood; known for antioxidant and medicinal properties
• Other Compounds: Includes tannins and anthraquinones

🩺 Health Benefits and Uses

1. Antioxidant Properties: Guibourtinidol and other compounds help protect cells from damage
2. Traditional Medicine: Used in African traditional remedies for various ailments such as:
   • Fever
   • Malaria
   • Diabetes
   • Infections
3. Wound Healing: Bark extracts are used on cuts and wounds
4. Liver Health: Some research suggests it may help protect liver function

⚠️ Safety and Precautions

• Toxicity: Generally considered safe in traditional use, but not widely studied in modern clinical trials
• Use with Care: Should be used under guidance when taken in high doses or as extracts

📍 In India

• Hindi Name: Not commonly known or used in India; no widely recognized Hindi name
• Availability: Rare in India; not part of traditional Indian medicine but may be available through international herbal supplies