Substitute for Senokot

The active ingredient in Senokot comes from an herb called senna. This stimulant laxative has been used for centuries to relieve constipation. Substitutions for name-brand Senokot include natural senna supplements and other types of laxatives.

How Senna Works

• Senna is also available in tea form.

  Within six to 12 hours after ingestion, senna reaches the colon. There, it interacts with enzymes to stimulate the bowel's nerves, causing the normal wave-like contractions of the digestive system to increase, ultimately producing a bowel movement.

Substitutes

• Prunes can work as well as other laxatives.

  Senokot is available in tablet and liquid form. Substitutes include other sources of senna, such as powders and teas found at health food stores.

  People wishing to avoid taking senna have other laxative choices. These include stool softener--which increases the amount of fluid in the stool, making it easier to pass--and bulking agents such as psyllium. The old standby, prune juice, is also effective due to the large amounts of indigestible sorbitol contained in prunes.

Preventing Constipation

• High-fiber foods include most fruits and vegetables.

  The need for laxatives can often be prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Eat plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Exercise regularly, drink eight glasses of water daily, and don't resist the urge to have a bowel movement when the feeling strikes.