Senna leaf is one of the herbal plants that is widely used to treat constipation. Not only that, this one herbal plant also has other benefits for the digestive tract.
Senna leaves, or in Javanese known as godong seno, has long been used to treat constipation. Content sennosides contained in senna leaves have a laxative effect. So, it is not surprising that senna leaves are effective for treating constipation.
Benefits of Senna Leaves for the Digestive Tract
The following are two benefits of senna leaves for the digestive tract:
Mrelieve constipation
As previously explained, senna leaves are effective for overcoming constipation. Senna leaves that have been extracted into medicine have even been approved by the United States health organization for use by adults and children over the age of 2 years.
The effectiveness of senna leaves in overcoming constipation can be increased when combined with psyllium or docusate sodium. The mixture of senna leaves with these two ingredients is believed to be effective for treating constipation in the elderly and constipation after anorectal surgery (anus and the end of the large intestine).
Besides being consumed in the form of medicine, senna leaves can also be consumed in the form of tea. However, senna leaf tea has a bitter taste, you may need to add honey when drinking it.
Clean the intestines before colonoscopy
Consuming senna leaves is considered quite effective for emptying the intestines in preparation for a colonoscopy procedure. Although it is still controversial, several studies have revealed that the ability of senna leaves to empty the intestines is as good as castor oil. bisacodyl, as well as polyethylene glycol.
To get an optimal colon cleansing effect, senna leaf is often combined with several other types of laxatives.
Before consuming senna leaves, you should pay attention to the side effects, such as stomach cramps, bloating, stomach pain, and diarrhea. In long-term use, these leaves can even cause muscle weakness, kidney failure, and liver damage.
This herbal plant should also not be consumed carelessly, especially in people who suffer from intestinal, kidney, liver, heart, and kidney diseases. Crohn disease, colitis, peptic ulcers, or hemorrhoids, are pregnant or breastfeeding, are taking medicines from a doctor, or have allergies to certain drugs. Before consuming senna leaves, you should first consult with your doctor.