Senna Leaves 4 oz /pkg to 1 lb bulk Botanical Names Family Fabaceae/Leguminosae Cassia species Cassia senna syn. Senna alexandrina Cassia marilandica Cassia alata Cassia fistula Cassia angustifolia Cassia obtusifolia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Common Names Alexandrian Senna, Tinnevelly Senna, India/Indian Senna, Khartoum Senna, Shower Tree, Monkey Pod Tree, Ringworm Cassia, Purging Cassia, Candle Tree Spanish: Hojasen, Ca afistula, Sen, Hojasen, Té de Sena, Retama, Guajava, Casse, Cassia, Chacara Nahuatl: Ecaptli, Xiuhecapatli

Key Actions cathartic laxative stimulant

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Key Components anthraquinone glycosides (sennosides) naphthalene glycosides mucilage flavonoids volatile oil

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Medicinal Parts Leaves, pods The sennosides have been extensively researched over the last fifty years, which has led to a clear understanding of its action. These components irritate the lining of the large intestine, causing the muscles to contract strongly, resulting in a bowel movement about ten hours after the dose is taken. They also stop fluid from being absorbed by the large bowel helping to keep the stool soft, which is particularly helpful if there are fissures present. The use of senna is considered a last resort used infrequently and only after diet changes, increased fluid and fiber, and gentler laxatives have been tried. Long term use can result in the body depending on it and not being able to move naturally without it.

Three anthraquinone glycerides in the seeds of C. obtusifolia were found to be effective in blood platelet aggregation.

In a 1998 study in India, the focus was on the plant's ability to protect the liver. Test animals who received the extract, showed less damage to the organ than those who did not receive it. Its effect was similar to those commercially prepared products prescribed for liver problems.



----------------------------------- Remedies The pods are milder in effect than the leaves and are commonly made into tablets and other preparations. Tablets are the most commonly taken for constipation. A decoction is made by steeping senna and ginger and used for constipation. An infusion is combined with fresh ginger and cloves and used for mild constipation. Tinctures are used by herbalists for short-term constipation.

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Traditional Uses In Ayurvedic medicine, senna is used, not only for constipation, but also for skin problems, jaundice, bronchitis, liver disease, splenomegaly, typhoid fever, and anemia. In Chinese medicine, Jue ming zi (C. obtusifolia) is used for "liver fire" patterns, atherosclerosis, and for constipation.

As a cathartic (a very strong laxative), senna can cause griping and colic. It is, therefore, taken with such aromatic, carminative herbs, as ginger and cloves, that relax the intestinal muscles.

In Latin America, the pulpy seed partitions have been eaten as a laxative or steeped in water for the same use. A syrup made with the flowers has also been used as a laxative.

In a 1987 Guatemalan study, it was found to have pronounced diuretic effects in test animals. In Guatemala, Mexico, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic, the juice is one of several remedies used for urinary ailments.

In Guatemala, Suriname, and Mexico, it is used to relieve constipation. The leaves are also used to treat ulcers and other skin diseases.

In South American traditional medicine, it is used as an abortifacient or to stimulant menstruation.

Cautions Do not give to children under two, and those from two to twelve should follow proper dosage recommendations. Do not take for more than ten days at a time. Prolonged use leads to weakening of the large bowel muscles and such other conditions as cardiac arrhythmias, electrolyte imbalances, finger clubbing, and accelerated bone deterioration.

Do not take during pregnancy.

Do not use if intestinal obstructions, acute intestinal inflammations, or appendicitis is suspected.

It should not be taken if there are such problems as ulcers, diverticulitis, colitis, or other intestinal disorders.

A moderate overdose can cause severe cramping and diarrhea, resulting in possible dehydration and excessive loss of potassium and other electrolytes.