Senna Leaves

SENNA - (Sinamiki) - Senna Alexandrina - Cassia Angustifolia - Legume Family Common names: Alexandrian senna, East Indian senna HISTORY OF USE Senna is a popular herbal laxative known and used around the world. It is very useful for acute constipation. Arab physicians first wrote of its action as a bowel stimulant in the 9th century, but their descriptions suggest that it had been widely used for centuries from the Middle East to India. Senna was introduced into European herbal healing before the Crusades and has played a prominent role ever since. MEDICINAL USE Senna’s primary use is as an herbal laxative. It works up to eight hours after taking the tea, so it is best to take at bedtime and not in the morning. Senna stimulates contractions in the lower Gastrointestinal tract. It is vital to recognize that constipation is a sign of an underlying issue with the body, and not the problem itself. Therefore it is important to look for and address the root cause of constipation, particularly a chronic condition. CULINARY USE Beyond preparing as tea, senna is not generally used for culinary purposes due to its laxative effect. ACTIONS Purgative, cathartic FLAVOR Pungent, bitter CONSTITUENTS The leaves contain anthraquinone derivatives. CAUTIONS Not to be used long term, as it can weaken the bowels over time and create dependency. Senna is not recommended in presence of diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain. Consult a physician before using it if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication, or if you develop persistent diarrhea. TEA BLENDS Best to blend this with carminative and aromatic herbs to increase palatability. This would include the mint family herbs, such as mint or lemon balm. DISCLAIMER This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, heal, mitigate, or remedy disease. It is for educational purposes only and should not be implemented without the express consent of your healthcare practitioner.