The dried leaves of senna are very effective in cases of occasional constipation but should not be used too long (maximum 10 days). Latin name : Cassia angustifolia Constituents: derivatives of anthracene (sennosides A and B, naphthalene derivatives, flavonoids.

It is used medicinally. It was a constituent of catholicum simple pharmacopoeia West Marine in the eighteenth century.

It is used as a purgative, similar to aloe and rhubarb. Its active ingredients are derivatives of anthraquinone and their glycosides. Senna acts on the large intestine by increasing the peristaltic movements of the colon.

EFFECTS / INDICATIONS

Effects : Purgative & Laxative (stimulation of peristalsis of the large intestine) : effect after about 10 hours causing loose stools. Senna may have an irritant effect which is why we must use it against the occasional constipation.

Pharmacology : the properties of anthracenes (active ingredients contained in the senna) prevent the reabsorption of water and electrolytes in the large intestine, which causes loose stools.

Directions: Occasional constipation in adults, duration of therapy in up to 10 days, unless medical advice. Purge bowel and hemorrhoids (Senna promotes loose stools).

SIDE EFFECTS / CONTRAINDICATIONS Side effects: if long-term use or abuse that may cause the loss of certain minerals Contraindication: pregnancy, lactation, children.

Interaction : Hypokalemia prolonged use with certain heart medications.