Laxative Properties Of The Senna Plant
In the early 2000s, the FDA forbade the further use of cascara and aloe in supplements targeted at people with constipation. This FDA directive redu...
In the early 2000s, the FDA forbade the further use of cascara and aloe in supplements targeted at people with constipation. This FDA directive reduced the herbal laxative market to senna. The herb senna comes from a plant native to many regions around the world, but historically has been associated with the East African continent as well as what has come to be known as the Middle East. It’s a mediums-sized, unobtrusive shrub-like plant.
The word senna itself has an interesting history rooted in the Semitic languages, as befitting its origins. It’s also known by another equivalent name, cassia. Both are commonly used. It’s active ingredient is a chemical or a class of chemicals known as the anthraquinoids. Anthraquinones are found in other types of laxatives. They have the effect of stimulating movement in the intestinal tract.
It’s quite plausible given what we know about senna’s etymological and geographical origins that its use actually goes back centuries. It was used in an unprocessed, essentially raw, form in times past. Nowadays, advanced manufacturing processes allow the herb to be bought in capsule or tablet form. Consumers can also opt for the tea formulation.
Despite its categorization as a natural laxative, all consumers must remain sensitive to the quality standards of the manufacturing company or producer. In the hands of an unscrupulous company, herbal treatments can become dangerous. Furthermore, even if companies take pains to maintain high quality, taking could have side effects and consequences because of its unregulated status. There’s no reason that a natural laxative can have dangers too. Although allergic responses have not been reported frequently, it’s still something to be aware of.
For additional safety, all buyers of senna should be well-informed of the warnings related to taking the senna herb. Medical and scientific studies have indicated that those who have a history of problems with heart disease, and those with hypertensive tendencies may react poorly to senna. The bottom line is that anyone who wants to try a new kind of laxative treatment, whether its natural or not, should ask for information from his personal physician.
In times of antiquity, senna was likely to be ingested while in herbal or leaf form. Some people will find this to be the most pleasing way of taking senna. In response to such demand, manufacturers have made a tea form of the senna laxative. However, sophisticated formulations such as capsules and tablets can be more nutritious if they are fortified with minerals like calcium.
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