Senna
Latin Name: Cassia angustifolia
Family: Leguminosae
Description
The name senna comes from Arabid, and was first introduced by Arabian physicians. The leaves that come from Africa are loosely packed and keep their curled appearance that occurs after drying. Senna from India is tightly packed, resulting in the dried leaves being flat. High quality leaves have a fresh yellow to green colour, a slightly bitter taste, and a smell similar to green tea.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Senna leaves and pods are an old time remedy for constipation. However, senna is one of the most abused plants and should only be used with respect and moderation.
Senna is quite a strong laxative due to the anthraquinone glycosides found in the plant. It is used in gall bladder disorders, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and following rectal or abdominal surgery. Senna is an ideal way of evacuating the bowel before surgery or diagnostic investigation. If used alone, it can cause griping (cramping bowels) and should be combined with fennel, peppermint or ginger to counteract this effect.
Source
Leaves and pods
Preparations
Traditionally, 2 pods of senna were soaked in 3 cups water and allowed to sit for 12 hours, then taken.
Infusion: An ideal method of taking senna is to combine 1 teaspoon herb, a slice of lemon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, and a little honey and infused with 1 cup boiling water. Take warm.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not use in inflammatory bowel conditions such as colitis, Crohn's disease, ileus, appendicitis, or abdominal pain of unknown origin.
Your body will become dependent on senna if used continually over a long period of time. The root cause of the constipation should be looked in to and other remedies should be employed.
Avoid in pregnancy as senna is too strong a purgative.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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