Senna Leaf

What is a senna leaf?

The fruit (pod) or leaf of the Senna alexandrina plant is known as senna. The US has authorized its use as a laxative to temporarily relieve constipation. Sennosides are a group of compounds found in senna. Sennosides have a laxative effect because they irritate the intestinal lining.

Senna is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative that has FDA approval. In addition to treating constipation, it is also used to empty the bowels in preparation for procedures like colonoscopies. Senna is also used for various other ailments, such as weight reduction, hemorrhoids, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although these claims are not well supported by research.

How do I use a senna leaf?

For a maximum of ten minutes, steep 1-2 grams of dried senna leaves in hot water. Pour the strained liquid into a cup, taste it and add your preferred sweetener. You should avoid consuming it more than twice in a single day. Prior to adding senna to your regular diet, make sure you know how much of the herb is in the herbal tea mix you are purchasing.

Senna Leaf Benefits:

A common medical plant that relieves constipation is senna herb, which also includes natural laxatives. The US FDA has approved senna as a laxative that doesn't need a prescription. Additionally, it offers a substance that helps people lose weight and detoxifies the body.

◉ Constipation: This herb's most well-known uses are as a laxative and purgative. It is now understood that sennosides, anthraquinone glycosides, are responsible for the laxative properties of senna. These substances cause contractions that quickly expel waste materials from the body.

Senna may also help the large intestine absorb more water, which will give feces greater volume and softness. As waste moves through the large intestine, this technique enables rapid and fluid bowel movements.

◉ Colon Cleanse: Senna is often used to induce constipation prior to diagnostic procedures like colonoscopies. It is thought that colon cleansing enhances nutrition absorption and promotes general colon health.

◉ Digestive Health: Senna has natural enzymes that aid in restoring the stomach's normal secretions of gastric juice in cases of indigestion. Senna has shown promise in lowering intestinal irritation by enhancing overall digestion when taken as directed for certain durations of time.

Additionally, resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory substance found in senna, has the potential to reduce gastrointestinal tract inflammation.

◉ Skin Health: Senna leaves provide tannins and essential oils that reduce irritation of the skin. You can compress them to treat burns and wounds due to their potent antibacterial properties.

Other substances found in senna, such as acetone and ethanol, help combat the bacteria that cause acne. Senna also promotes collagen synthesis and cell renewal while lowering sebum production.

Where can I buy senna leaf?

Buy senna leaf from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals

Senna Leaf information (at a glance):