Senna
Botanical
Also known as: Senna alexandrina, Sennosides, Cassia angustifolia
A
Grade A💊 15-30mg sennosides or 1 cup tea at bedtime🎯 3 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Overview
Stimulant laxative for occasional constipation, works by stimulating intestinal contractions.
Primary Uses
Occasional constipationBowel prepShort-term use
Dosage
Typical range
15-30mg sennosides or 1 cup tea at bedtime
Timing
Bedtime for morning effect
With food
Either way
Duration
Occasional use only (max 1-2 weeks)
Special Populations
Occasional constipation
Mechanism of Action
- • Stimulates intestinal contractions
- • Increases fluid secretion
- • Works in 6-12 hours
- • Not for regular use
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade A
Well-established stimulant laxative
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Dependency with chronic use
- • Melanosis coli
- • Electrolyte imbalance
Contraindications
- • Chronic constipation (address cause)
- • IBD
- • Bowel obstruction
- • Pregnancy
Common Side Effects
- • Cramping
- • Diarrhea
- • Electrolyte loss
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid - may stimulate uterus
Liver & Kidney Notes
Can cause electrolyte issues
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • May reduce absorption of some drugs
🧪 Supplements
- • Deplete electrolytes
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • Either way
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Nothing - occasional use only
Avoid Combining With
Other laxativesChronic use
Best Goal Synergies
Occasional constipation only
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Standardized sennosides
- • For occasional use
Standardization Markers
Sennoside content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Occasional use only
- • Not for chronic constipation
- • Dependency risk with regular use
Tags
stimulantlaxativeoccasionalconstipation
Frequently Asked About Senna
How much Senna should I take?
The typical effective range is 15-30mg sennosides or 1 cup tea at bedtime. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Senna?
Bedtime for morning effect. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Senna with food?
Either way.
Does Senna interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include May reduce absorption of some drugs. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Senna.
What does Senna pair well with?
Senna stacks well with Nothing - occasional use only — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Senna?
Senna should be avoided or used with caution by people with Chronic constipation (address cause), IBD, and Bowel obstruction. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Senna?
Most people tolerate Senna well. The most commonly reported side effects are Cramping, Diarrhea, and Electrolyte loss. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.