Herbs - Plant Constituents - Anthraquinones & Glycosides

Long known for their purgative and dyestuff properties, anthraquinones and other closely related chemicals are usually found in plants as glycosides, combined with a sugar. The direct action of these compounds on the gut may cause griping pains and these plants are usually used in conjunction with carminatives to relieve such symptoms. Plants with these constituents should never be used to treat constipation due to spastic colon -- the pain and discomfort would be severe. Examples include Senna and Yellow Dock.