SENNA

Latin Name: Cassia senna

Alternate Names: Alexandrian Senna, Rajavriksha (Sanskrit), Fan Xia Ye (Chinese)

Family: FABACEAE

Parts Used: Leaves, pods.

Properties: Alterative, Anthelmintic, Antibilious, Cathartic, Diuretic, Febrifuge, Laxative, Purgative, Stimulant, Vermifuge.

Internal Uses: Anal Fissure, Constipation, Hypertension, Obesity, Worms

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules, Syrup.

Senna is used in many commercial laxative preparations, such as senolax, fletcher's castoria and black draught. The sennosides are irritating to the large intestine lining, causing peristaltic action and bowel evacuation. It also helps to temporarily prevent fluid from being absorbed from the large intestine, thus contributing to softer stools. 

Topical Uses: Halitosis

Topical Applications: Mouthwash for bad breath.

Culinary uses: Mixed with dried fruits as a laxative candy. 

Energetics: Bitter, Pungent, Sweet, Cold.

Chemical Constituents: Anthraquinone glycosides (sennaosides, aloe-emodin, rhein), beta-sitosterol, flavones, tartaric acid, mucin, essential oil, mucilage, tannin, resin.

Contraindications: The leaf has a stronger effect than the pods and may cause stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. To prevent this, combine with carminative herbs such as Fennel Seed, Ginger or Peppermint. Overuse may cause laxative dependency so should not be used for more than ten days in a row. Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid for children under 12. Avoid in cases of colitis, ulcers, diarrhea and hemorrhoids. Long term use may cause fingertip enlargement. Using Senna may make the urine appear reddish. Do not be alarmed. 

Comments: Senna is native to tropical Africa. The common name Senna includes the species Cassia acutifolia, Cassi angustifolia, Cassia marilandica, and other Cassia species, which are used interchangeably with Cassia senna.