Using the Herb Senna as a Laxative

Constipation can be uncomfortable. We may not have been eating correctly and/or getting enough exercise. During these times we might reach for a mild laxative to quickly and gently fix the problem. There are those times and those people, however, who suffer from severe constipation. This may be brought on by a prolonged illness. Frequently, certain medications, such as painkillers, will cause a severe bout of constipation. At such times, a stronger laxative may be required. The herb senna (Cassia senna) has been used for centuries as a powerful laxative.

Senna grows as a small woody shrub — about 3 feet — native to Egypt and Sudan; although, the species generally used in herbal medicine is found in the Tennevelly region of India. Used widely throughout the Middle East and into India, the herb was finally introduced to the Europeans during the Crusades. There is an American form of this herb that Native Americans used; however, they used it primarily to treat fevers. Today, senna can be found in many over-the-counter laxatives, such as Correctol and Ex-Lax.

Senna contains anthraquinones. These substances stimulate the colon and should be taken with care. Senna can be so powerful that some herbalists consider it a cathartic. Before turning to senna as a treatment for severe constipation, do try a bulk-forming fiber, such as psyllium [see my article on the Health Benefits of Psyllium], and remember to drink more water and try to exercise more. If increasing your fiber and fluid intake and exercising more does not help, you can try cascara sagrada, which is also an anthraquinone herb, but much gentler than senna. If all else fails, however, then you may wish to turn to senna.

You can consult with an herbalist about using dried senna in an infusion. (Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the dried leaves in one cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink one cup either in the morning or at bedtime for just a few days.) You should be warned, however, that senna tastes just awful. You can try adding sugar, honey, and lemon; however, I recommend that you look for over-the counter medications. These usually contain senna and perhaps some type of stool softener. Before resorting to senna, do consult with a certified herbalist, your primary care physician, or your pharmacist. Note the dosages on the label. Senna really should not be taken for extended periods of time (not over 7-14 days straight). Over an extended period of time, senna can possibly cause lazy bowel syndrome, or the inability to have a bowel movement with some type of chemical stimulation. In addition, large amounts can cause severe cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and possibly dehydration. I was recently advised to continue taking fiber; i.e., psyllium, while taking senna. This seems to work quite effectively and does not require that I take large amounts — the limit is 4 tablets twice a day — or that I even take the senna daily. Actually, I have reduced the dose since the first day that I took the senna. (I have been dealing with severe constipation due to pain medication prescribed.)

Final warnings: Do take senna if you suffer from any type of chronic gastrointestinal disorders, such as colitis, hemorrhoids, or ulcers. If you are pregnant or nursing, never use this herb. Elderly patients; i.e., those over the age of 65, should start with the lower dosage. Discontinue use if you develop any type of allergic reactions.

Reference:

Castleman, Michael. The New Healing Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Inc., 2009.