Cassia alata, also known as Senna alata and Cassia herpectica, among other scientific names, and commonly called seven golden candlesticks, candle bush, gelenggang (Malay) or akapulko (Filipino), was introduced from the Americas to other tropical areas in the world. Its buds are likened to fat candles because of their columnlike appearance, with their red tips resembling flames. Its leaves, which fold together at night, are bilateral and symmetrically opposed. Because of its adaptability, it has come to be considered a weed.
[edit] Medicinal use.
Akapulko leaves contain chrysophanic acid, a fungicide that is used to treat such infections as ringworm and athlete's foot. This has made akapulko a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions. The leaves are also said to contain a laxativethat effectively expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, boiled akapulko leaves are used to mitigate high blood pressure, while in South America, they are used to treat stomach problems, fever, asthma, snake bite, and even venereal diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea. [Note: Another source says anthraquinone instead of saponin.Saponins are better known as chemical compounds that are natural detergents; note the similarity to the word “soap.”]
Source: http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Philippine_Medicinal_Plants
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