Senna Pods Profile
Also known as
Senna alexandrina, Senna cassia, Alexandrian Senna, Khartoum Senna, and Tinnevelly Senna.
Introduction
Senna, a small, scrubby plant that grows in the deserts of North Africa has been used for centuries as a natural laxative. It is remarkably effective, and extracts of the leaves and pods are used by pharmaceutical manufacturers to create over the counter laxatives that are promoted as "gentle laxatives". In fact, the leaves are fairly powerful, and can cause cramping and severe diarrhea if they are given in too strong a dose. The seed pods provide a gentler action, and are often recommended by herbalists to help relieve constipation and promote soft, easy stools. This can be particularly valuable in situations where hard stools may cause damage, as with hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
Constituents
rhein-dianthrone diglycosides, dianthrone diglycosides, monoanthraquinone glycosides and aglyca, hydroxyanthracene glycosides, calculated as sennosides B (Mr 863) Albumen, mucilage, starch, volatile oil, resin, salts of potassium and calcium, and a principle resembling cathartin.
Parts Used
Seed pods
Typical Preparations
As a tea, in capsules, within herbal preparations and sometimes in esoteric food dishes
Summary
Senna is an ingredient in some of the most well-known over the counter laxatives. It has a long history of traditional use behind it to prove its effectiveness. The most common warning associated with the use of senna is to avoid prolonged use, as it can lead to chronic diarrhea, or a boomerang reaction where the body depends on its stimulation in order to function properly. Senna tea made from pods and fruit of the senna plant are milder in action than a preparation made from the leaves, and should be the preferred form.
Precautions
Do not use senna for more than a week unless under the care of a doctor. Those with chronic bowel problems such as Crohn's disease should consult a doctor before using senna products. Its long term use is not recommended and it should not be used while pregnant. Its excessive use will result in diarrhea and/or abdominal pain.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
