Senna Leaves

Composition: Senna leaves. These are plants known since ancient times: they were grown in Egypt and Southeast Asia for their ornamental character, but also for their edible fruits. Senna contains anthracene derivatives (sennosides A and B). In the colon, the sennosides contained in senna are digested by the bacteria of the intestinal flora and release anthraquinones which accelerate transit in two ways: by inhibiting the absorption of water contained in digested food (the stools remain soft ) and stimulating bowel movements. The laxative effect of senna is also due to an irritant action on the walls of the intestine, which limits its use.