Senna

What is Senna?

Senna is a powerful cathartic used in the treatment of constipation, working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis. It is also known as Indian Senna, Cassia Senna or Cassia Augustifolia. It is member of the bean family native to China, India and Pakistan.

Senna is an active ingredient in many well-known commercial laxatives. You can buy a more natural, undiluted form of senna at some health-food stores. Senna is available in supplements and liquid extract form.

Side Effects and Warnings of Senna

Senna is a strong purgative that should be taken with care and in proper dosage. It has an irritant effect upon the intestinal membrane, and may cause griping, pain or nausea, along with liquid stools or diarrhoea.

Since it is so powerful, it should not be used by anyone with chronic gastrointestinal conditions such as haemorrhoids, ulcers or colitis.

If you do choose to take senna do not take it for more than two weeks! One of the senna side effects with extended use is lazy bowel syndrome, which is a condition in which you will be unable to move your bowels without chemical stimulation.

Use of Senna is highly discouraged especially if you have not talked to your doctor about its use.

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