What are the side effects of senna leaves?
Feb 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, senna leaf is a purgative herb, which is the dried leaflet of the leguminous plant Senna angustifolia or Senna acutifolia. It has functions of purging heat, promoting bowel movement, relieving constipation, and promoting diuresis. Possible side effects include diarrhea, dependency-related constipation, electrolyte disturbances, gastrointestinal bleeding, and liver damage. Senna leaf should be used under the guidance of a physician to avoid excessive or long-term use.
Generally, Senna leaf is a purgative herb, which is the dried leaflet of the leguminous plants狭叶番泻 (Cassia angustifolia) or尖叶番泻 (Cassia acutifolia). It functions to purge heat, promote bowel movement, and induce diuresis. Its potential side effects may include diarrhea, dependency-related constipation, electrolyte imbalance, gastrointestinal bleeding, and liver damage, among others. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Diarrhea
Senna leaf primarily promotes bowel movements by stimulating intestinal motility. Improper use can easily lead to diarrhea. In mild cases, the frequency of defecation may increase, while in severe cases, watery stools may occur. Frequent diarrhea can affect the intestine's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to physical weakness.
2. Dependency-related Constipation
Long-term use of Senna leaf can cause the intestines to become dependent on it, gradually weakening the normal defecation reflex and peristaltic function. Once the medication is discontinued, the intestines may struggle to evacuate independently, worsening constipation symptoms and creating a vicious cycle, which increases the difficulty of treating constipation.
3. Electrolyte Imbalance
Severe diarrhea caused by Senna leaf can result in significant loss of water and electrolytes through feces, such as potassium, sodium, and chloride. If not replenished promptly, this may lead to electrolyte imbalance, causing symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, and arrhythmia. In severe cases, it can even be life-threatening.
4. Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Senna leaf has a certain stimulating effect on the intestinal mucosa. Long-term or excessive use may lead to mucosal congestion, edema, erosion, or ulcers, which can cause bleeding. Symptoms may include blood in the stool or black stools, and in severe cases, hematemesis may occur, requiring immediate medical attention.
5. Liver Damage
Certain components in Senna leaf may cause some damage to the liver, affecting its normal metabolic and detoxification functions. Long-term use may lead to abnormal liver function, with symptoms such as elevated liver enzymes and jaundice, manifesting as yellowing of the skin and sclera, and darkened urine.
Senna leaf should be used under the guidance of a physician to avoid excessive or prolonged use. It is contraindicated in patients with weak constitutions, women during menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation. If any discomfort occurs after taking Senna leaf, use should be stopped immediately and medical assistance sought.
