Exploring What Agathi Keerai Seeds Are Used For

November 27, 2025 •

3 min read

Used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, the seeds of the Agathi Keerai plant, also known as Sesbania grandiflora, possess valuable medicinal properties. These seeds, prized for their anthelmintic and laxative effects, have a specific place in natural remedies that sets them apart from the plant's other edible parts.

Quick Summary

The seeds of the Agathi Keerai plant are traditionally used as a laxative and to treat intestinal worms. They also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion.

Key Points

Anthelmintic Action: Agathi Keerai seeds are cooked and used traditionally to treat and expel intestinal worms.
Laxative Effect: The seeds have historically been used as a natural laxative to aid digestion and relieve constipation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: The seeds contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, offering potential relief for inflammatory conditions.
Antipyretic Use: In traditional medicine, Agathi seeds are used to help reduce fevers.
Specific Preparation: For better medicinal outcomes, traditional methods sometimes involve soaking the seeds before consumption to enhance their properties.
Distinct from Other Plant Parts: The therapeutic uses of the seeds differ from the more general nutritional and culinary applications of the leaves and flowers.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Agathi Keerai Seeds

While many people are familiar with Agathi Keerai for its leaves and flowers used in South Indian cuisine, the seeds of this plant (Sesbania grandiflora) hold a distinct and important place in traditional medicinal practices. Historically, they have been harvested and processed specifically for their therapeutic effects, which differ somewhat from the general nutritional benefits of the leaves.

Targeting Intestinal Worms

One of the most documented uses for Agathi Keerai seeds is their anthelmintic property, meaning they are used to expel intestinal worms. In traditional remedies, the seeds are cooked and then consumed to remedy this common ailment. The bioactive compounds within the seeds are believed to create an unfavorable environment for parasites, assisting the body in expelling them naturally. This specific application highlights the seed's targeted medicinal function.

Acting as a Natural Laxative

Another prominent traditional use is as a laxative. For centuries, the seeds have been prepared to help with constipation and promote regular bowel movements. The compounds found within the seed, which include saponins, act to stimulate the digestive system, providing relief from issues like bloating and sluggishness. This makes them a key ingredient in remedies aimed at improving overall gut health and detoxification.

Anti-inflammatory and Antipyretic Benefits

Beyond their digestive uses, Agathi seeds are also used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. The antipyretic effect means they can help reduce fevers. The anti-inflammatory compounds contribute to reducing inflammation within the body, potentially helping with a variety of inflammatory diseases. This broad-spectrum traditional application demonstrates the seed's versatility as a natural remedy.

How Agathi Seeds Compare to Other Plant Parts

The Agathi plant's various components offer different benefits, a distinction that is crucial for traditional medicine practitioners. While the leaves and flowers are primarily known for their nutritional and culinary value, the seeds are focused on specific therapeutic actions, as shown in the table below.


Feature	Agathi Keerai Seeds	Agathi Keerai Leaves	Agathi Keerai Flowers
Primary Use	Laxative, Anthelmintic	High in iron, calcium, fiber; general nutrition	Edible; mild bitterness; nutritional benefits
Key Properties	Laxative, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic	Antioxidant, rich in vitamins A & C, bone health	Antioxidant, rich in vitamins A & C, eye health
Traditional Remedy For	Intestinal worms, constipation	Detoxification, digestion, anemia, immunity	Headaches, night blindness
Common Preparation	Cooked or prepared as herbal remedy	Sautéed, curries, soups, stir-fries	Salads, curries, stir-fries, fritters

Safe and Effective Use of Agathi Seeds

For those interested in preparing remedies with Agathi Keerai seeds, sourcing from a reputable provider is important. A key aspect of effective use is knowing the correct preparation methods. Some herbalists advise soaking the seeds, often starting with hot water to aid in germination, before preparing them for consumption. This process can help enhance the desired medicinal properties. As with many herbal remedies, moderation is advised, and consulting a healthcare provider before use is recommended, especially for those with existing medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also noted that the plant's leaves should not be consumed frequently, a cautionary note that may apply to the seeds as well.

Conclusion

In summary, the uses for Agathi Keerai seeds extend far beyond simple cultivation. With a long history in traditional medicine, particularly for their anthelmintic and laxative properties, these seeds are a specialized and potent component of the versatile Sesbania grandiflora plant. Their traditional applications in treating intestinal worms and alleviating constipation highlight their distinct therapeutic value, while their anti-inflammatory effects contribute to broader wellness. As with any herbal remedy, understanding the correct preparation and proper dosage is key to safely and effectively harnessing their benefits.

Visit Annai Medical College of Siddha for further insights into the traditional medicinal uses of Agathi

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary traditional use for Agathi Keerai seeds is as an anthelmintic, a remedy for expelling intestinal worms.

While traditionally used for medicinal purposes, it is advised to consume Agathi Keerai seeds in moderation and with proper preparation. Consulting a healthcare professional before use is recommended, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals or those with health conditions.

In traditional remedies, Agathi Keerai seeds are typically cooked. Some preparation methods involve soaking them in water for a period to aid in germination and potentially increase their medicinal properties.

Besides being anthelmintic and laxative, the seeds are known in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects.

No, while both have benefits, the seeds have more targeted therapeutic uses, such as being anthelmintic and laxative. The leaves are generally higher in certain vitamins and minerals for overall nutrition.

The Agathi plant is a legume that can improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen. The seeds are instrumental in cultivating new plants for this purpose.

As with many herbal remedies, excessive consumption may lead to mild digestive issues like nausea or diarrhea. It's important to use them in moderation and be aware of potential interactions with other medications.