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Senna Leaf
100% ORGANIC
Senna leaf is primarily used as a powerful, short-term laxative for treating occasional constipation. Its active compounds, called sennosides, stimulate the muscles of the large intestine to trigger a bowel movement, typically within 6 to 12 hours. Senna is available over-the-counter in various forms, such as tablets, liquids, and teas.
Uses
Relieves constipation: Senna is an FDA-approved treatment for occasional constipation in adults and children over the age of 2. It is most effective when used for short periods.
Bowel preparation: Due to its stimulating and purgative effect, senna is sometimes used to clear the bowels before medical procedures like a colonoscopy.
Hemorrhoid relief: By softening stools and making them easier to pass, senna can reduce the straining associated with constipation, which may provide some relief for individuals with hemorrhoids.
Skin infections: In traditional medicine, topical preparations of Senna alata have been used for skin conditions like acne and ringworm due to possible antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Important safety precautions
Short-term use only: Senna should not be used for more than one week unless under medical supervision. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence, meaning your bowels may lose their ability to function normally without it.
Not for weight loss: While often included in "detox" or "skinny" teas, senna is not effective for sustainable weight loss. Any temporary weight change is from fluid and waste loss, not fat reduction, and misusing it for this purpose can lead to serious health issues, including eating disorders.
Electrolyte imbalance: Long-term or excessive use can cause a deficiency of potassium and other electrolytes, leading to muscle weakness, heart problems, and other serious health issues.
Potential for liver damage: High doses or prolonged use have been linked to cases of liver injury.
Interactions: Senna can negatively interact with some medications, including:
Diuretics and steroids: May increase the risk of potassium depletion.
Blood thinners (like warfarin): Can increase the risk of bleeding.
Contraindications: You should not use senna if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have conditions such as:
Crohn's disease
Ulcerative colitis
Appendicitis
Severe stomach pain
Talk to your doctor: Always consult a healthcare provider before taking senna, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking other medications.
100% ORGANIC
Senna leaf is primarily used as a powerful, short-term laxative for treating occasional constipation. Its active compounds, called sennosides, stimulate the muscles of the large intestine to trigger a bowel movement, typically within 6 to 12 hours. Senna is available over-the-counter in various forms, such as tablets, liquids, and teas.
Uses
Relieves constipation: Senna is an FDA-approved treatment for occasional constipation in adults and children over the age of 2. It is most effective when used for short periods.
Bowel preparation: Due to its stimulating and purgative effect, senna is sometimes used to clear the bowels before medical procedures like a colonoscopy.
Hemorrhoid relief: By softening stools and making them easier to pass, senna can reduce the straining associated with constipation, which may provide some relief for individuals with hemorrhoids.
Skin infections: In traditional medicine, topical preparations of Senna alata have been used for skin conditions like acne and ringworm due to possible antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Important safety precautions
Short-term use only: Senna should not be used for more than one week unless under medical supervision. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence, meaning your bowels may lose their ability to function normally without it.
Not for weight loss: While often included in "detox" or "skinny" teas, senna is not effective for sustainable weight loss. Any temporary weight change is from fluid and waste loss, not fat reduction, and misusing it for this purpose can lead to serious health issues, including eating disorders.
Electrolyte imbalance: Long-term or excessive use can cause a deficiency of potassium and other electrolytes, leading to muscle weakness, heart problems, and other serious health issues.
Potential for liver damage: High doses or prolonged use have been linked to cases of liver injury.
Interactions: Senna can negatively interact with some medications, including:
Diuretics and steroids: May increase the risk of potassium depletion.
Blood thinners (like warfarin): Can increase the risk of bleeding.
Contraindications: You should not use senna if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have conditions such as:
Crohn's disease
Ulcerative colitis
Appendicitis
Severe stomach pain
Talk to your doctor: Always consult a healthcare provider before taking senna, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking other medications.