What Are Senna Leaves Used For?

Cassia senna, commonly referred to as senna, is a large genus of flowering plants native to the tropics. Senna leaves are processed and sold as an herbal supplement. Alternative medical practitioners use senna leaves to treat constipation, as well as for other health-related purposes. Senna is not intended for long-term use, and as with any herbal product, you should talk to your health-care practitioner before taking senna supplements.

Constipation Relief

Senna leaves stimulate the colon and are commonly used as a laxative. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but senna is thought to induce fluid secretion in the colon, which results in an increased colonic motility and consequently increased bowel movements. As such, senna is often used to relieve constipation, and clinical research suggests that senna is effective for the treatment of short-term constipation. According to "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database," senna usually produces a laxative effect 8 to 10 hours after oral administration.

Bowel Preparation

A colonoscopy is a commonly used procedure for the detection and treatment of colonic lesions. The August 2000 issue of "Surgical Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Percutaneous Techniques" published a study examining the effectiveness of senna as a bowel cleansing aid in preparation for a colonoscopy. After the colonoscopy, the endoscopist scored cleansing for each bowel segment and defined the quality of the examination as "optimal," "acceptable," or "to be repeated." The senna produced an optimal cleansing effect in 38 percent of the patients. It should be noted however, that oral sodium phosphate supplements were deemed more effective.

Folk Medicine Uses

Folk medicine uses senna to reduce pain and inflammation in individuals with hemorrhoids and anal fissures. In addition, people use senna as an antioxidant, for weight loss, for "cleansing," and to treat throat inflammation. These uses are based on anecdotal reports and traditional uses; they have not yet been substantiated by scientific evidence.

Precautions

Senna leaf products may cause abdominal pain and discomfort, bloating, flatulence, cramps, nausea and diarrhea. Excessive use can cause potassium depletion and electrolyte imbalances. Senna may also interact negatively with dioxin, diuretic drugs and warfarin, and it is contraindicated in individuals with dehydration, diarrhea, loose stools, heart disease, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It is important that you do not exceed the recommended dose of senna; you should not use this product for longer than 1 week without the advice of a health care provider.