Candle Bush (Senna alata)

Senna alata, commonly known as the candle bush or ringworm bush, is a fast-growing tropical shrub in the Fabaceae family. Native to the Americas but widely naturalized in tropical regions, it is valued both as an ornamental plant and for its medicinal properties. The leaves, flowers, and seeds have traditionally been used in folk medicine, particularly for their antifungal, antimicrobial, and laxative effects, with the leaves commonly applied topically to treat skin infections such as ringworm. With its therapeutic potential and adaptability, Senna alata remains an important species in traditional medicine and tropical horticulture.