In late 2002, the U.S. Federal Drug Administration decided to restrict the sale of aloe and cascara products which were being marketed for laxative purposes. After this, senna became the sole surviving class of herbal laxatives being sold on large scale in the U.S. The plant has its origins in the East African region and Middle East, but can also be found in more temperate locations.

The word senna itself has an interesting history rooted in the Semitic languages, as befitting its origins. It’s also known by another equivalent name, cassia. Both are commonly used. It’s active ingredient is a chemical or a class of chemicals known as the anthraquinoids. Anthraquinones are found in other types of laxatives. They have the effect of stimulating movement in the intestinal tract.

It’s quite plausible given what we know about senna’s etymological and geographical origins that its use actually goes back centuries. It was used in an unprocessed, essentially raw, form in times past. Nowadays, advanced manufacturing processes allow the herb to be bought in capsule or tablet form. Consumers can also opt for the tea formulation.

Despite its categorization as a natural laxative, all consumers must remain sensitive to the quality standards of the manufacturing company or producer. In the hands of an unscrupulous company, herbal treatments can become dangerous. Furthermore, even if companies take pains to maintain high quality, taking could have side effects and consequences because of its unregulated status. There’s no reason that a natural laxative can have dangers too. Although allergic responses have not been reported frequently, it’s still something to be aware of.

In line with the issue of safety, one should always know that there are warnings associated with senna usage. For example, it has been noted that people with a history of heart disease or hypertension should refrain from taking senna. In fact, it’s important to realize that a patient should consult the advice of his personal doctor before embarking on any laxative treatment, natural or not.

In times of antiquity, senna was likely to be ingested while in herbal or leaf form. Some people will find this to be the most pleasing way of taking senna. In response to such demand, manufacturers have made a tea form of the senna laxative. However, sophisticated formulations such as capsules and tablets can be more nutritious if they are fortified with minerals like calcium.

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