Common Name Standardized: sennaOther: Alexandrian senna, Indian senna, true senna Botanical Name Senna alexandrina Mill.Plant Family: Fabaceae Synonyms Cassia acutifolia, Cassia angustifolia, Cassia lanceolata, Cassia senna, Senna acutifolia, Senna angustifolia Overview IntroductionThe sennas are scrubby desert plants of North Africa. Senna has been used around the world for thousands of years as a laxative.Constituents1-3% hydroxyanthracene glycosides, mainly sennosides A and B, which are rhein-dianthrones, and smaller amounts of sennosides C and D, which are rhein-aloe-emodin-heterodianthrones; naphthalene glycosides; flavonoids (derivatives of kaempferol and isorhamnetin); 10-12% mineral matter; 7-10% mucilage (galactose, arabinose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid); about 8% polyol (pinitol); sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose); and resins.Parts UsedDried leaf, and/or pods.Typical PreparationsUsually as an extract, capsule or tablets. Can be taken as a tea.SummarySenna encourages bowel movement by inhibiting the smooth muscles that retain stool and stimulating the smooth muscles that push stool through the intestine. The herb doesn't work unless the sennosides in the herb are transformed into rheinanthrones by beneficial bacteria in the colon. The leaf of senna is fairly powerful and for a more mild effect, it is recommended that you use the pods. Precautions Specific: Do not use product if you have abdominal pain or diarrhea. Consult a healthcare provider prior to use if you are pregnant or nursing a baby. Discontinue use in the event of diarrhea or watery stools. Do not exceed recommended dose. Not for long-term use.General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.