Herbal Laxative, 60 Veg Caps

Benefits

• Traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve occasional constipation
• Traditionally used to promote bowel movements for short-term relief
• May help relieve occasional constipation when diet and fluids have not been enough
• Traditionally used as a stimulant laxative herb
• Intended for short-term use only
• Typically works overnight when taken in the evening

What people commonly use it for

• Occasional constipation (Good clinical evidence that senna is an effective short-term stimulant laxative)
• Sluggish bowel while travelling (Traditional use)
• Constipation from low fibre or low fluid intake (Good evidence for short-term relief, alongside diet changes)
• Constipation from reduced movement or routine changes (Traditional use)
• Feeling backed up for a day or two (Traditional use for short-term relief)

Suggested to use alongside

• Psyllium husk: Gentle fibre to support regularity
• Peppermint tea: Traditional herbal tea for digestive comfort
• Probiotic: Supports gut wellbeing

Senna leaves and pods contain sennosides A and B, which are anthraquinone glycosides. They are inactive until they reach the large intestine, because human digestive enzymes cannot break them down. This is why senna normally works 6 to 12 hours after a dose.

How it works. In the colon, gut bacteria remove the sugar groups from sennosides, producing the active compound rheinanthrone. This stimulates the nerves in the gut wall, increasing muscle contractions (peristalsis). It also reduces water absorption from the colon and increases the secretion of fluid and electrolytes, softening the stool.

Short-term use. Because senna is a stimulant, the body can come to depend on it, and long-term use may lead to diarrhoea, loss of fluids and electrolytes (especially potassium), and a lazy bowel. Guidelines generally recommend using stimulant laxatives for no more than one week without medical advice (NHS and Australian Medicines Handbook guidance).

First steps. For ongoing constipation, increasing fibre, fluids and exercise are the first approach. Gentler options include psyllium, magnesium, or prunes.

Quality. Senna products vary in sennoside content, so standardised extracts give more predictable results. Dose should be kept to the label amount.

• Pack size: 60 Veg Caps
• Form: Vegetarian capsules

Supplement Facts

Serving Size: 2 Capsules

Servings Per Container: 30

Amount Per Serving: %Daily Value

Organic Bael Tree (Aegle marmelos) leaf (Bilva): 600 mg †

Organic Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum) seed (Chandrashoor): 100 mg †

Organic Psyllium (Plantago ovata) husk: 50 mg †

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: Herbal Laxative, Senna Free Formula, 60 Veg Caps

What is senna used for?

Senna is a herbal stimulant laxative used for short-term relief of occasional constipation.

How long does senna take to work?

Usually 6 to 12 hours, so many people take it in the evening for a morning movement.

Can I take senna every day?

No. Senna is for short-term use only, up to about a week. If constipation continues, see your healthcare professional.

What are the side effects of senna?

The most common are cramping, abdominal discomfort and loose stools. Urine can also turn a harmless yellow-brown or reddish colour.

Is senna safe for weight management?

No. Senna should never be used for weight management. Misuse can cause serious fluid and electrolyte loss.

What can I use instead of senna for regularity?

Gentler options include more fibre, fluids, exercise, magnesium, psyllium or prunes. They suit longer-term regularity better.

For short-term use only. Do not use senna if you have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, undiagnosed bowel changes, bowel obstruction or inflammatory bowel conditions. Not recommended in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for children without medical advice. Prolonged use can cause electrolyte imbalance and may interact with heart medicines, diuretics and corticosteroids. Seek advice if constipation persists beyond a week.

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