Know the Importance, Benefits, and Side effects of Senna in Ayurveda

2022-07-11 00:00:00

Senna, also known as cassia senna, is a plant that offers fruit and leaves with rich medicinal values. It has laxative properties which can helps to provide relief in constipation, liver problems, and reducing weight. We’ll know more about Senna through the section of this blog.

Benefits of Senna

• Helpful in constipationThe most effective action of senna leaves is to relieve constipation. Senna leaves contain compounds like sennosides which stimulate muscle contractions in the intestines. Contraction of intestinal muscles helps the stool to move through the bowels by providing them a downward push (motion) and relieves constipation. Sennosides also increase the secretion of water in the colon, which softens the stool and increases its volume, facilitating its downward movement.
• Reduces inflammationSenna leaves contain a natural anti-inflammatory compound called resveratrol (the same compound that provides red wine's anti-inflammatory benefits). Therefore, senna leaves can help to reduce widespread chronic inflammation in the body but senna leaves are not approved for long-term use, it may not be the best choice for chronic treatment.
• Helps in reducing weightSenna leaves enhance digestion by increasing the body metabolism rate. It removes accumulated toxins and stools from the body along with which it also helps in scraping out body fat.
• Treats liver problemsMethanol extract in Senna leaves can reduce oxidative stress on the liver. It also helps to increase the amount of good cholesterol (HDL), reduce the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, and even prevent liver damage.
• Ginger teaGinger has analgesic and antibacterial properties which removes swelling and pain. Therefore, using ginger tea containing honey or ginger in any form is beneficial for sinus.

Precautions to be taken while using Senna

• If you choose to use senna, use it as directed by your doctor.
• You must chew the chewable senna tablet before swallowing.
• Measure liquid medication carefully. Use the supplied dosing syringe or medicine dose measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
• Senna must show the result of enhancement in bowel movements within 6 to 12 hours after you consume it.
• Senna can be dangerous if taken long term or in high doses.
• Call your doctor if your constipation does not improve after 1 week of use, or if your constipation worsens.
• Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Side effects of Senna

• Senna might cause allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling over face, hands or feet, vomiting, nausea, and delirium. Get emergency medical attention in such cases.
• Stop using senna and call your doctor at once if you have rectal bleeding, lack of bowel movements within 12 hours of using senna, low potassium causes leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeat, chest tightness, increased thirst or urination, tingling or numbness, muscle weakness or lameness.

Where is it found?

Senna is found along the Nile and is widespread in southern and eastern India. It is also found in Egypt and Sudan.