This section is from the book "A Text-Book Of Materia Medica, Pharmacology And Therapeutics", by George F. Butler. Also available from Amazon: A text-book of materia medica, pharmacology and therapeutics.
(Purging Cassia.)
Origin. - The dried fruit of Cassia Fistula L., a tree 30 to 50 feet (9-15 M.) high, indigenous in the East Indies.
Description and Properties. - Cylindrical, 1 1/2 to 2 feet (45-60 Cm.) long, nearly 1 inch (25 Mm.) in diameter, blackish brown, somewhat veined, the sutures smooth, forming two longitudinal bands; indehiscent, internally divided transversely into numerous cells, each containing a reddish-brown, glossy, flattish-ovate seed imbedded in a blackish-brown sugary pulp; odor resembling that of prunes.
Dose. - 1-2 drams (4.0-8.0 Gm.) [1 dram (4 Gm.), U. S. P.].
Confectio Sennae - Confectionis Seinnae - Confection of Senna. - Described under Senna.
Physiological Action and Therapeutics. - Cassia is a mild and pleasant laxative. It is seldom given alone, however, but forms an ingredient in the confection of senna.
 
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