The leaves and pods from the senna plant, or Cassia angustifolia, are found in senna tea and other senna products, including capsules and tinctures. The herb is a member of the legume family and has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ninth century A.D. Arabia. Today, senna tea is readily available in health food stores, but this herb can produce some distressing side effects, so use it judicially and only under a doctor's supervision. The FDA does not oversee the production of herbal teas and remedies, so there is no guarantee of their safety or quality.
Senna Properties
Senna tea contains anthracene derivatives, sennosides and naphthacene derivatives, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Senna is a stimulating laxative, meaning it irritates the lining of the intestine and produces intense contractions. Sennoside compounds inhibit the absorption of water in the intestines. This increases the volume of the contents in the intestine, which also increases pressure and the subsequent evacuation of the bowels.
Potential Benefits
For occasional constipation, senna tea can be a beneficial herbal laxative. Since it also softens the stool, it may provide relief during bowel movements for those who suffer from hemorrhoids and anal fissure. Because it causes strong intestinal contractions, however, use this herb under a doctor's supervision.
Laxative Abuse
Using senna tea as an aid to weight loss can lead to laxative abuse. Dieters who drink senna tea after meals, as a form of purging, have an increased risk of developing a dependence upon laxatives in order to have bowel movements.
Considerations
Long-term use of senna tea can lead to dehydration from repeated bouts of diarrhea. Senna tea products may suggest brewing a cup of tea, diluting it and then saving some of it for later use. Failure to read the instructions may lead to drinking too much tea at one time, which can lead to intestinal distress.
Senna tea may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea in some. It may also result in abdominal cramping and a bloated feeling. Severe side effects require a doctor's attention, and these include weakness or dizziness, sweating, an increased heart rate and a rash.
Anyone with a history of intestinal disorders, including colitis, irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, should not drink senna tea. Long-term use can lead to depletion of potassium levels and interfere with the absorption of nutrients and prescribed medications. Use senna tea only under a doctor's supervision.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- Pharmacy Health: Sennosides -- Drug Information
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