Background

• Senna is an erect branched shrub of the legume family (Fabaceae)
• Distributed throughout the tropical regions of the world
• Widespread in UAE, found in valleys, lower slopes of mountains, and roadsides, along the sand and gravel.

Part(s) Used

Leaves & Pods, seeds and roots

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

Many Senna species are among the recognized effective traditional herbal medicines in different regions of the world. Senna preparations has been used as/for:

How Much Do We Know?

• Senna is a common ingredient in many commercially available laxatives
• It is approved by the FDA as an OTC remedy for constipation for adults and children over two years.
• Senna is proven to be beneficial for short-term and chronic constipation
• In U.A.E, the powdered leaves or decoction of leaves and fruits, mixed with sugar and lemon or with aromatic herbs like anise, ginger to treat constipation.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Senna is likely safe when used in the recommended doses
• Senna is possibly unsafe in chronic use and/or higher doses

Using Senna by

Mouth

• The maximum adult intake of Senna should not exceed equivalence of 34.4 mg sennosides twice daily
• The maximum children (6-11 years) intake of Senna should not exceed equivalence of 17.2 mg sennosides twice daily
• The maximum children (2-5 years) intake of Senna should not exceed equivalence of 8.6 mg sennosides twice daily

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy, Breast-feeding, Children

Senna is likely safe when used appropriately in the recommended doses

Keep in Mind

• Do not hesitate to speak with your health care provider before starting to use any supplements.
• Discuss potential benefits and risks, especially if you are suffering from any health problems.