The Senna Plant: A Popular Natural Laxative

In the early 2000s, the FDA forbade the further use of cascara and aloe in supplements targeted at people with constipation. This FDA directive reduced the herbal laxative market to senna. The herb senna comes from a plant native to many regions around the world, but historically has been associated with the East African continent as well as what has come to be known as the Middle East. It’s a mediums-sized, unobtrusive shrub-like plant.

The name senna has an interesting background, stemming from the Semitic languages such as Arabic and Hebrew, which is suggested by the geographical origins of the plant. The active agent is a compound that is known as an anthraquinone. In broader terms, anthraquinones are found in other substances that have purgative or laxative effects which stimulate the gastrointestinal tract.

Given our knowledge about the origins of the name and where the plant comes from, we may not be so surprised to learn that senna has been used for many hundreds of years. Lacking the modern engineering methods of production, it was used in an unprocessed form. However, consumers now can buy it in bottles of capsules which are easier to take.

Even though it’s specified as an herbal supplement, consumers would be wise to know the background of manufacturing companies that sell this product. A company with poor quality control can produce a bad batch of senna. But supposing the company has the highest standards, a consumer should continue to be wary as there may be side effects of this natural laxative that is largely unregulated by stringent pharmaceutical laws. Herbal supplements can cause unintended and dangerous effects.

In line with the issue of safety, one should always know that there are warnings associated with senna usage. For example, it has been noted that people with a history of heart disease or hypertension should refrain from taking senna. In fact, it’s important to realize that a patient should consult the advice of his personal doctor before embarking on any laxative treatment, natural or not.

Though it originally was taken as an herb, modern day formulations of senna are quite varied. A senna tea is available for people who wish to brew it and drink it. It’s possible that the usage of senna in antiquity was based largely on the tea form. Some nutritional and supplement stores carry it in a tablet or capsule form. The capsules might have other types of minerals or supplements to give it additional bulk and health value such as calcium.

Additional topics and articles on remedies for constipation can be found at the site. You can find more information on psyllium seeds.