Bitterroot Restoration

Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Common name: Kalkasunda(Beng.); Balatong aso,  Fedegoso, Coffee senna, Coffeeweed, Western senna(Eng.)
Life cycle: Annual
Native Range: Cassia occidentalis is found in many tropical areas of South America, including the Amazon. Indigenous to Brazil, it is also found in warmer climates and tropical areas of South, Central, and North America.

Cassia occidentalis is a small tree that grows 5–8 m high and is found in many tropical areas of South America, including the Amazon. It is an erect, annual herb or undershrub. Their seed pods are dark brown and curve slightly upward; the seeds are olive - brown and flattened on both ends. The seeds, which are in long pods, can be roasted and made into a coffee - like drink. Their leaves and flowers can be cooked and are edible.

Cassia occidentalis has been used as natural medicine in the rainforest and other tropical areas for centuries. Its roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds have been employed in herbal medicine around the world. the roots are considered a diuretic, and a decoction is made for fevers. The seeds are brewed into a coffee-like beverage for asthma, and a flower infusion is used for bronchitis.