Senna sieberiana
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Kingdom: Plantae ·
Clade: Tracheophytes ·
Clade: Angiosperms ·
Clade: Eudicots ·
Order: Fabales ·
Family: Fabaceae ·
Genus: Senna ·
Species: Senna sieberiana Synonyms: Cassia sieberiana DC.;
Cassia kotschyana Oliv. Common Names: Senna,West
African laburnum Local Names: Efo,
ifo, Aridan-tooro,Gaa fa'da Species ID: NMP-159;wfo-0001393727 Basic Description Senna sieberiana, commonly known as the
drumstick tree, is a tree that ranges from 10 to 20 meters in height. It
features bright yellow flowers that bloom during the dry season, from February
to March. The bark of the tree varies from dark grey to black and has
horizontal reddish lenticels. The leaves are pinnate with 7-10 pairs of
opposite leaflets. Distribution and
Habitat Senna sieberiana is native to multiple parts
of Africa, including the southern Sahel, Senegal, Sudan, Uganda, and East
Africa. It grows best in well-drained, humid soils with an annual rainfall of
about 500 mm. The tree is commonly found in secondary forests and savannahs. Medicinal Properties Senna sieberiana is extensively used in traditional African medicine. It has several medicinal applications, including: Senna sieberiana is extensively used in
traditional African medicine. It has several medicinal applications, including: Anti-inflammatory and
Pain Relief: The roots and leaves are used to treat inflammation and pain. Laxative: The plant has
purgative properties and is used to treat constipation. Antimicrobial: It has been traditionally used
to treat bacterial infections and skin diseases. Anti-diabetic: Some parts of the
plant are used in managing diabetes. Known Toxicity
Senna sieberiana should be used with caution,
particularly regarding dosage. Prolonged or excessive use of the plant can
cause adverse effects due to its potent bioactive compounds. As with many
traditional medicinal plants, it is essential to use it under the guidance of a
healthcare professional to avoid potential toxicity. Additional Information Senna sieberiana also has non-medicinal uses.
The wood is hard and termite-resistant, making it suitable for construction and
tool-making. Additionally, the plant is used in cultural practices and as an
ornamental tree due to its bright flowers.
References Oladeji, O. S., Adelowo, F. E., Oluyori,
A. P., & Bankole, D. T. (2020). Ethnobotanical description and biological
activities of Senna alata. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative
Medicine, 2020. External
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Compounds of Senna sieberiana | |
References | Jibril, S., Sirat, H. M., & Basar, N. (2017). Bioassay-guided isolation of antioxidants and α-glucosidase inhibitors from the root of Cassia sieberiana DC (Fabaceae). Rec. Nat. Prod, 11(4), 406-410. |