Senna (plant)
Senna
Senna is a plant traditionally used in various folk and traditional medicine practices, particularly in North Africa and parts of Asia. It has been employed for its laxative properties to promote bowel movements. Scientific evidence suggests that Senna can effectively cleanse the colon; studies indicate a statistically significant difference between Senna users and those using conventional methods based on the Aronchick Scale. Additionally, there is some indication that Senna use may be associated with lower 28-day mortality in critically ill patients with hepatic failure, though more research is needed to confirm these findings. Notably, Senna obtusifolia has shown potential antifungal and insecticidal properties for maize pest control but this is not a traditional or current medical application. In terms of safety, no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no reported drug interactions with Senna.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found a statistically significant difference in colon cleansing between the Senna group and the conventional group based on Aronchick Scale.
- Senna use was independently associated with lower 28-day mortality in critically ill patients with hepatic failure, with evidence of a dose-response relationship.
- Senna obtusifolia is among 31 plant families identified with potential antifungal and insecticidal properties for maize pest and disease control.
- TCAE, SLAE, and SPAE induced THP-1 cell apoptosis, suggesting potential therapeutic effects for leukemia, though more clinical studies are required.
- Sennative candies were found to be effective and well-tolerated for constipation relief by 79.8% of participants, though side effects were reported by 19.9%.
Frequently asked questions
What is Senna (plant)?
Senna (plant) (Senna) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Senna (plant)?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Senna (plant); the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found a statistically significant difference in colon cleansing between the Senna group and the conventional group based on Aronchick Scale.
How strong is the evidence for Senna (plant)?
The strongest finding for Senna (plant) carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Senna (plant) safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Senna (plant) in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Senna (plant) interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Senna (plant) in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Senna (plant)?
Senna (plant) is also known as: сенна, Séné.
Is Senna (plant) a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Adding Senna alkaloid to laxative agents in bowel preparation for pediatric colonoscopy: a clinical trial study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of senna-based laxatives' candies: A cross-sectional study on constipation management. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Medicinal Plants as Biopesticides Against Pests and Diseases of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Africa: Ethnobotanical Insights and Challenges. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Association between senna use and outcomes in critically ill patients with hepatic failure: A propensity score-matched real-world cohort study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Study of Tinospora cordifolia stem and Senna siamea leaf and pods: An in vitro therapeutic approach for leukemia. literature abstract metadata