If you want to get some plant to cleanse your bowels or to get a relief from the constipation, then senna plant is the right plant for you. It is a flowering plant. It belongs to Fabaceae family. Senna plant has yellow, white and pink flowers. Senna plant has origins in North Africa, Middle East and some parts of Asia. Most commonly, senna plant is found in the temperate regions of China and India. Senna plant is considered as powerful laxative because it has compounds known as anthraquinones.
All parts of senna plant have medicinal value and this is a reason why they have been used for thousands of years in the herbal medicine of India. Senna plant leaves were used in the traditional Chinese medicine as herbal laxative but it has been rendered inappropriate for regular use. You can find this plant in health food stores in tablet or capsule form, tea bags and loose tea, and liquid extracts.
The pods of this plant are also possessing laxative properties but they are less potent than the leaves. The long – term usage of this plant can cause diarrhea which is leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Some people can be allergic to senna leaves and this can be noticed as a change in the color of urine. The long – term usage of this plant can increase the risk for liver damage, heart function disorders and muscle weakness.
Health benefits of senna plant
Treatment of indigestion: Senna plant can give you a relief from bloating, belching, gas, nausea and heartburn that are associated with dyspepsia. When senna plant is taken with aromatic herbs like peppermint, ginger, fennel and cardamom, then it can diminish the buildup of gas in the stomach through its strong purgative actions.
Antibacterial properties: Senna plant has essential oils and tannins that are possessing anti – bacterial properties. They can inhibit the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, such as parasites, fungi and bacteria. When you chew senna leaf like tobacco, then it can cure mouth infections and gingivitis. Also, it possesses mild inflammatory properties which can soothe external and internal swelling.
Weight loss: Senna plant can help in the weight loss due to its laxative properties. Senna leaf tea can help you a lot to achieve this goal. It can help you to get a relief from the occasional constipation which often happens in low fiber weight loss diets. Also, this tea is low calorie food which can boost your fluid intake. When you are drinking more fluids, then it causes you to eat less. It can aid in elimination of toxins and undigested food in the large intestine. The detoxification and cleansing is supporting the proper nutrient absorption and optimal metabolism which is resulting in weight loss.
Treatment of intestinal worms: This plant has laxative properties which are very helpful in the treatment of intestinal worms in the colon and stomach.
Treatment of hemorrhoids: Senna plant is very effective in the treatment of hemorrhoids and anal lacerations because it can help to reduce the swelling and facilitates quick healing. It can help to promote soft stools so this can cause easy defecation in pathological conditions like anal fissure. When the senna plant is indigested orally, then its compounds get absorbed into the intestinal tract which is resulting in the separation of non – sugar parts in the colon. These non – sugar compounds can increase the peristaltic movements by stimulating and irritating the intestinal tract. This can speed up the passage of stools through the intestinal tract.
Combats hair loss: Senna plant will beautify your hair but also it can improve scalp condition and treats dandruff. It adds luster and definition to your hair. It is excellent conditioning herb which can combat the hair loss.
Great conditioner: Senna plant is used as a conditioner to impart shine and also it will strengthen and thicken your hair. This plant can minimize the side effects of cosmetic products. In a period of few days you will see the benefits of this plant.
