- Fabaceae
- Pods
- Egypt · Sudan · India
- Dried pods, for infusion
Senna
Senna alexandrina
Select sizeThe plant
Senna is a small shrub of North Africa and India. Its flat, papery seed pods are dried whole and are milder than the leaf.
What's in it
Senna contains sennosides, compounds that become active in the large bowel. They belong to the same group of plant substances as those in cascara.
Sennosides
The active compounds, released by gut bacteria in the large bowel.
Mucilage
Soft plant fibre found in the pod.
How it works
Bowel movement: Sennosides stimulate the muscular movement of the large bowel, usually within 6–12 hours. Softer passage: They also help keep more water in the stool. Together, these actions explain its use for occasional constipation.
In the tradition
Used in Arabic medicine from the 9th century and later adopted across Europe.
The name comes from the Arabic sanā, through the physicians who brought it to Europe.
- 1Steep 3–6 pods in 150ml warm (not boiling) water for 10–12 hours, then strain.
- 2Drink once, at bedtime, for occasional use.
- 3Start with the lower amount.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
- Short-term use only, maximum one week without medical advice.
- Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, under age 12, bowel disease, unexplained abdominal pain or dehydration.
- Can cause cramps and diarrhoea.
- On heart, diuretic or steroid medication: potassium loss may interact.
- Long-term use without breaks: may cause laxative dependency.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare senna?
Senna is steeped as an infusion. Steep 3–6 pods in 150ml warm (not boiling) water for 10–12 hours, then strain. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is senna?
Senna (Senna alexandrina) belongs to the Fabaceae family; the pods are used. Origin: Egypt, Sudan, India. Dried pods used for short-term relief of occasional constipation.
How should I store dried senna?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
What people say
No reviews yet
We publish reviews only from people who have actually bought Senna. Nothing seeded, nothing bought in.
Browse by wellness goal
