Senna Leaf Safety

Senna leaf, or Cassia senna, is an herbal laxative available in tablet and tea forms. It is an FDA-approved nonprescription medication that is described as likely safe for short-term use of up to two weeks. Long-term use of senna can lead to serious complications, however, and, as with any herbal medication, should be used only after consultation with a medical professional.

Uses of Senna Leaf

• Senna is used as a treatment for constipation. The American Herbal Products Association recommends that senna not be used in patients suffering from abdominal pain or diarrhea, and that it not be used for longer than two weeks. The AHPA indicates that senna fruit is also a laxative, but is gentler than senna leaf and is not sold with the same warnings.

Misuse of Laxatives

• Dr. Subhuti Dharmananda, director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine reports that misuse and abuse of laxatives is a serious problem often seen in patients with obesity and chronic intestinal disorders. Abuse of laxatives can lead to dependence, nutrient imbalance, specifically depletion of potassium, and damage to the intestinal tract.

Recommended Dosage

• Senna leaf is recommended for constipation in capsules or tea at around 17 mg per day. Do not take more than 34.4 mg daily. Long term use can lead to laxative dependence and liver damage. Senna can be used safely for up to two weeks.

Warnings

• Senna should not be used for longer than two weeks, or by patients with abdominal pain or inflammatory stomach conditions, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, appendicitis, hemorrhoids or intestinal blockage.