Senna, the name of several species of shrubs within the Cassia family, grows in subtropical climates in most areas of the world. The two species used in commercial production, C acutifolia and C. angustifolia, yield leaves with strong laxative properties. Although senna leaf sells as a supplement in health food stores, it is also available as an FDA-approved standardized ingredient in some medications.
Constituents/Function
Senna leaf contains anthracene derivatives and naphthacene derivatives, both of which are anthranoid laxatives that inhibit the absorption of water in the large intestine, softening stools and increasing their mass. As pressure and fecal volume increases in the intestine, the colon contracts, ridding the body of fecal waste, according to the PDR for Herbal Medicines.
Preparations
Senna leaf is available as an herbal tea, tablets, chewing gum and syrups in health food stores, but it is also an ingredient in prescription laxatives, reports the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. Only pharmaceutical products recommended by a doctor have FDA approval.
Benefits
When used as recommended by a physician, senna is a beneficial laxative for treating occasional constipation. The Gale Encyclopedia suggests that senna may be helpful for easing constipation in patients with hemorrhoids, anal fissures and for those recovering from colon surgery, abdominal surgery or childbirth.
Side Effects
Side effects of senna include intestinal spasms occurring after the bowel movement is complete and loss of potassium and electrolytes from misuse of the herb. Use of senna for longer than two weeks increases the risk of intestinal discomfort, according to the website, Drugs.com. Additional side effects include weight loss, diarrhea, jaundice, discolored urine, joint pain and numbness. Use senna only under a doctor’s supervision.
Contraindications
Patients with an intestinal obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease or appendicitis should not use senna leaf preparations, warns the Gale Encyclopedia. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid senna leaf products, unless prescribed by a physician.
References
- “PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition”; Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D., 2000
- “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 4”; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Drugs.com: Senna
- Botanical.com: Senna
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