Common Name: Senna

Cassia senna L. Senna, Senna Alexandrian senna pods, Tinnevelly senna pods

Family

Leguminosae(Caesalpinioideaae)

Part Used

Leaf; also the pod

Active constituents

Anthraquinone glycosides (incl. rhein, aloe-emodin, sennosides A and B), chrysophanic acid, chrysophanol, mannitol, mucilage, acetic acid salts, resins, essential oils

Actions

Laxative, purgative

Chinese actions: treats Intestinal qi stagnation, promotes bowel movement, removes accumulations and clears heat; Stops spasm and bleeding; reduces infections

Indications

Constipation esp. stubborn or chronic, full heat conditions with constipation, acute pancreatitis, cholecystitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, bacterial dysentery

Cautions

Long term use can create dependency and electrolyte imbalances, especially hypokalemia

As it is habit forming, Senna leaf is used for no more than a few days at a time. Pregnancy is a contraindication, as Senna is a uterine stimulant. But no proven increase in the frequency of malformations or other harmful effects on the fetus despite consumption by a large number of women; compatible with breastfeeding but use caution

Contraindications

Pregnancy; inflammation or irritation of the bowel (diarrhea) and Digoxin or Antiarrhythmic drug prescription; or in any case where heart disturbances are combined with the prescription of diuretics. It is not advisable to use senna or other stimulating laxatives where constipation is associated with an irritable or spastic bowel or in young. Do not use during lactation without professional advice

Herb Drug Interactions

Digoxin, thiazide diuretics, theoretically other remedies exacerbated by or causing potassium loss.

Dosage (use animal doses where available, otherwise human doses can be included here but specify)

Human: one teaspoon steeped in a cup of boiling water, or 3-9 grams;

1.5-6 g/day of dried leaf; 0.5-2 g/day of dried pods; 1.5-6 ml/day of a 1:2 liquid extract or equivalent in tablet or capsule form