Senna Leaves
A sachet of senna leaves brewed into a cup of tea. ( Sips daintily ) There are chemicals belonging to the anthranoid family inside the cup: anthraquinones, anthrones and dianthrones.
While there are some evidence of possible increased risk in test-tube studies with long-term use, the overall results are mixed i.e. the possibility of senna causing cancer is not conclusive to the point that merits a warning alert. However senna anthranoids is better than other herbal anthranoid laxatives such as cascara sagrada and turkey rhubarb in one aspect: that they are not very absorbable thus reducing risk of harm deeper in the body. In the tinnevelly senna or Indian senna, the leaves and seeds contain 2-3% of anthraquinonic glycosides called Senosid A and B. Senosids remain inactive until I sip them and wait until they land in my colon. Then the intestinal bacteria inside my colon produce the enzyme glycosidase to release the active component aglycon which exerts its laxative power. For me, it doesn't matter if I use the Alexandria senna, Spanish senna, American senna or Indian senna. The properties of different species are similar but I believe Indian senna contain a higher concentration of active components. Other components are mucilage and flavonoids which gives senna leaf or senna pods drink its laxative properties, and the irritant resin which can cause vomiting and nausea if consumed in large doses. Is that your cup of powerful tea for temporary constipation relief?
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