Cassia auriculata (Avaram): Uses, Preparations & Safety

Ever noticed bright yellow flowers used in South Asian home remedies? That's Cassia auriculata, often called Avaram. People have used its flowers, leaves, and bark for generations for simple problems like skin issues, hair care, and general wellbeing. This page gives clear, practical steps to prepare it, what the evidence says, and safety tips so you can try it without guesswork.

What it is and what people use it for

Cassia auriculata is a small shrub that grows across India and parts of Southeast Asia. The flowers are the most used part. Traditional uses include: supporting healthy skin, making hair rinses to reduce oiliness, and simple herbal teas. Lab and animal studies point to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in the plant, which might explain some traditional results. That said, clinical human trials are limited, so think of it as a supportive herbal option, not a replacement for medical treatment.

Simple ways to prepare and use Cassia auriculata

Flower tea (quick): Rinse 1–2 teaspoons of dried flowers. Steep in 1 cup of hot water for 8–10 minutes. Strain and drink warm. This is mild and easy to try once a day to see how you react.

Decoction (stronger): Simmer 1 tablespoon of dried flowers or 2–3 fresh flowers in 2 cups of water for 10–15 minutes. Let cool, strain, and sip in small amounts. Use if you want a more concentrated brew, but start with a small dose.

Hair rinse: Make a flower tea (as above), cool it, and use as a final rinse after shampooing. Massage into the scalp for a minute, then leave it on. Some people report less oiliness and a fresher scalp feel.

Topical paste: Grind fresh leaves with a little water to form a paste. Apply to small skin areas for a short test period to check for irritation before wider use.

Storage: Dry flowers in shade and keep them in an airtight jar away from heat and sunlight. Properly dried and stored material lasts many months.

Safety and practical warnings

There’s no standard dose for Cassia auriculata. Start small and watch how your body reacts. Avoid if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking strong prescription medicines without asking your doctor—especially blood sugar or liver medicines. The plant has compounds that may affect digestion and blood sugar. If you get stomach upset, rash, or any unusual symptom, stop using it and talk to a healthcare pro.

Want to try it? Start with a mild flower tea or a single hair rinse, and keep notes on how you feel. If you plan to use it for a health issue like diabetes or a persistent skin problem, check with your doctor first. Interested in more herbal guides or short how-tos? Browse our related posts and practical tips on the site.