Senna leaf is well known for its laxative properties, but there is much more to know.
However, this article talks about the properties and benefits of senna leaf, as well as some contraindications. Taking an infusion is recommended in specific cases, but its consumption should not be maintained for days.
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Properties and benefits of senna leaf
Senna leaf is basically taken as an infusion . It is shown that it is a highly recommended remedy to quickly combat constipation, indirectly helping to solve other problems such as hemorrhoids.
The properties and benefits of the senna leaf must be known to take advantage of them and benefit health. In any case, the senna leaf has important contraindications that it is necessary to know before consuming it.
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1. It is very laxative
Senna leaf is known for its laxative properties . It is one of the most outstanding uses of this plant, and it is that an infusion of it can treat constipation very effectively in the very short term. In any case, it must be a punctual solution, it is not a product to trust, because it cannot be consumed indefinitely.
2. Helps prevent hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can be easily improved and avoided thanks to senna leaf . This is due to the previous point, and it is that chronic constipation usually results in this ailment. This is a viable way to avoid a problem that is directly associated with excessive force when going to the bathroom.
3. It has purifying properties
The senna leaf is also known for its purifying properties . An infusion of this type of leaves is ideal for detoxifying the body. It is one of the reasons why this plant has also been used as a slimming agent, but this use is contraindicated; using it like this can lead to unwanted side effects.
4. Decreases fluid retention
The elimination of liquids is favored by senna leaves . This plant has diuretic properties, which benefits the body’s ability to combat fluid retention. It also helps improve the muscle tone of the urinary tract, favoring the excretion of urine.
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When and how to prepare a senna leaf infusion?
This section is aimed at people who have never prepared a senna leaf infusion . The truth is that it is not necessary to do anything very different compared to when preparing an infusion of another plant, but there are some things that it is good to comment on.
In the first place, the most common is to find preparations that contain senna leaf but also other medicinal plants. Some of the usual ones can be ginger, fennel or mint. In part they help to soften the bitter taste of the senna leaf, but they also bring all their properties and benefits to the infusion.
To prepare it, you just have to let it infuse in hot water, but it is better not to boil it. This prevents it from being irritating to the mucous membranes. It is advisable to leave the infusion at rest for a few minutes so that the water absorbs all its beneficial substances.
On the other hand, it is best to take it before going to bed. It is normally taken to take advantage of its laxative effects, and if it is done in this way, you can go to the bathroom normally the next morning.
Contraindications
The properties and benefits of the senna leaf are clear, but it is also necessary to know that they have some contraindications. This plant can produce negative effects on health if its contraindications are not taken into account . Here’s what you need to know about them.
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1. Pregnancy and lactation
A pregnant woman should not drink senna leaf infusion . This plant stimulates smooth muscle, so it could cause premature contractions and there would be a risk of abortion.
Breastfeeding women should also avoid consuming this plant. It could produce a laxative effect on the baby’s digestive system. This would present a series of unnecessary complications that would leave the creature in a vulnerable situation.
2. Too much consumption
It is not recommended to take senna leaf for more than two weeks . This plant should be consumed occasionally, as it can cause serious side effects such as liver, heart or intestinal complications.
There are some people who decide to take it to combat constipation on a daily basis, but this is a bad idea. On the other hand, if it does not help to improve constipation in a few days, it is best to consult the doctor how to proceed.
3. Lose weight with senna leaf
There are many people who turn to senna leaf for weight loss . However, it is not recommended to use this plant for this purpose. Its impact on metabolism is imprecise and ineffective.
However, the most effective way to lose weight is to exercise and eat a balanced diet. This should be rich in foods such as vegetables, fruits, and legumes and away from processed products.
4. Digestive problems
Senna leaf may cause problems if certain types of gastrointestinal conditions . It is very appropriate to take an infusion of senna leaf in the event that the stools are not very consistent, because then they can lead to diarrhea. Its consumption is also contraindicated if there are digestive problems, ulcers, etc.
5. Allergy sufferers
There are people who have had allergic reactions to senna leaves . When taking a senna leaf infusion for the first time, it should be done in small quantities and gradually. In this way it can be observed if any type of allergic reaction appears, always linked to the swelling of some tissues.
It is not common but it could be that the inflammation affected parts of the face such as the lips. On the other hand, care must be taken in case the swelling of the airways causes breathing difficulties.
6. Reaction with certain medications
Taking senna leaf infusion is not recommended if certain medications are taken . It has been observed that drugs with aspirin can present a bad interaction. If you are taking medication, therefore, it is best to consult your doctor if it is possible to take an infusion of senna leaf.
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Bibliographic references
- Irwin HS and Barneby RC (1982). The American Cassiinae: A synoptical revision of the Leguminosae tribe Cassieae subtribe Cassiinae in the New World. Memoirs of the New York Botanical Garden, 35, 1–119.
- Izzy, M., Malieckal, A, Little, E. y Anand, S. (2016). Review of efficacy and safety of laxatives use in geriatrics. World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology and Therapeutics 7 (2), 334–342
- Leung, L., Riutta, T., Kotecha, J. y Rosser, W. (2011). Chronic constipation: An evidence-based review. The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine. 24 (4), 436–451.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.