Senna 4:1

Botanical: Sennae folium
Family: Leguminosae  (legume)

Other common names:  Cassia Senna,  Senna Leaf, Alexandrian Senna, Egyptian Senna, Ringworm Bush, East Indian Senna, Nubian Senna, Rajavriksha

Senna is a powerful cathartic used in the treatment of constipation, working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis.  It is vital to recognize, however, that constipation is frequently caused by other factors and not a cause in itself.  Thus, it is wise to isolate and treat the cause of chronic constipation.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Senna is also known by the names Alexandrian Senna and Rajavriksha. Cassia senna is native to tropical Africa, and is cultivated in Egypt and the Sudan; Cassia angustifolia is native to India, and is cultivated mainly in India and Pakistan.  The parts of this plant used medicinally are the leaves and the pods. The leaves have a purging quality, but afterwards may have a binding effect.  Both the leaves and pods are used in many over-the-counter pharmaceutical laxative preparations.  People in northern Africa and southwestern Asia have used Senna as a natural laxative for centuries.  It was considered a "cleansing" herb because of its cathartic effect.  In addition, the leaves were sometimes made into a paste, and applied to various skin diseases; acne and ringworm were both treated in this way. Senna is a powerful cathartic used primarily in the treatment of constipation, working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis.  The primary chemical constituents of Senna include anthraquinone glycosides (sennosides, aloe-emodin, rhein), beta-sitosterol, flavones, tartaric acid, mucin, essential oil, mucilage, tannin and resin.  The sennosides are irritating to the large intestine lining, causing peristaltic action and bowel evacuation.  It also helps to temporarily prevent fluid from being absorbed from the large intestine, thus contributing to softer stools.  Senna is often combined with aromatic, carminative herbs such as Cardamom, Ginger Root, Peppermint and Fennel to increase its palatability.  Other historical applications of this herb have included support for inflammatory skin conditions, hypertension and weight control.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water about 30 minutes prior to mealtimes. Do not use this product more than ten (10) days consecutively.

Contraindications:

Great care should be taken with the use of Senna.  Pregnant, nursing or menstruating women should not use Senna, and it is not appropriate for children under twelve years of age.  People with intestinal blockage, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal ulcers, undiagnosed stomach pain or appendicitis symptoms must avoid Senna.  Senna can cause cramping, nausea and diarrhea, and the urine may take on a reddish hue (which is harmless).  Long-term use is not recommended (more than one week at a time), since it may cause dependence and a weakened colon, aggravate constipation and result in a loss of potassium and other vital minerals, which is particularly dangerous to people with heart rhythm irregularities.  Chronic constipation is usually indicative of another condition and should always be discussed with a physician.

Capsule Information:
Our Senna supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.