My experience with Senna (Cassia angustifolia)

I never had to take laxatives because I am lucky enough to have regular bowel movements (daily). I did this experiment because I wanted to know what it feels like after drinking a laxative tea (ex. Senna leaves).

Senna leaves (tea): Infuse 1 g of Senna leaves (Cassia angustifolia) in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes, then drink the tea. I chose Senna leaves because I’ve heard of it for many years and people use it for constipation.

The result: I drank the tea first thing in the morning after having a routine bowel movement.  At approximately 1:30 pm, I started experiencing a mild intestinal irritation and stomach ache.  At the same time, I had a bowel movement and the stool was a bit wet.  At about 2 pm, I started having intermittent intestinal cramping and this lasted for about 2~3 hours.  At about 5:00 pm, the cramping became unbearable.  I had to rush to the toilet and I had a light diarrhea.  I then stopped the experiment because the abdominal cramp was very annoying.

Lesson learned: It’s very unpleasant.  For constipation, it’d be better to look at dietary/lifestyle factors first before jumping straight into using laxatives.

Information can be empowering, but we all have unique health profiles and needs.  Health-related information contained in this post is intended to be general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for a visit with a Naturopathic Doctor.  The advice is intended to offer only a general basis for individuals to discuss their medical condition with their health care provider. Always consult your licensed Naturopathic Physician, or visit the Boucher Naturopathic Medical Clinic for individual care.

References:

Capasso, F., Gaginella, T. S., Grandolini, G., & Izzo, A. A. (2003). Phytotherapy: A Quick Reference to Herbal Medicine. Berlin & Heidelberg, Germany: Springer-Verlag.

Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.

Willard, T. L. (1993). The Textbook of Modern Herbology (2nd Revised Edition). Calgary, AB: Wild Rose College of Natural Healing, Ltd.