Amaltas
Amaltas
Treasures of Nature (Prakriti Ka Khazana) – Amaltas
Amaltas, scientifically called Cassia Fistula, is a flowering plant located in the tropical forests of Indian subcontinent and other parts of Southern Asia. It is a medium sized tree with a height of about 10-20 m. Its leaves are deciduous and yellow in color. It holds the privilege of being the National tree of Thailand. Also, its flower is National flower of Thailand and State Flower of Kerala, India. Apart from being an ornamental plant, it is known as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda, the ancient medical science of India.
Known to be the best known Ayrvedic herb for purgation, the blackish fruit pulp of Amaltas is used as laxative. One can soak 10-20 gm. of fruit pulp in water overnight and then drink it in the morning after filtering to use it as mild laxative. It not only clears out faeces from the body but also removes harmful toxins. Massaging the fruit pulp, after slightly warming it, on the navel area for about 10 minutes on a daily basis alleviates all digestive problems and also prevents gas and acidity. It cleanses blood and is helpful in curing skin problems such as itching.
It is popularly known as golden shower tree.