You may have read that Senna leaves are one of the ingredients in herbal teas. But what is exactly a Senna and what are its benefits? Senna tea is a popular herbal remedy that's often marketed as a laxative, weight loss aid, and detox method, according to Ansley Hill of Healthline. Aside from treating constipation, there is little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of Senna tea for the majority of its uses. However, you may be interested in learning more about the benefits and safety of this drink.
Senna leaves are found mostly in the Middle East and India. According to Nicole Galan of Medical News Today, the two most common Cassia senna plants used are the genus of C. acutifolia, and the C. angustifolia genus. Senna is an herb derived from several flowering species of the Cassia plant. The leaves, flowers, and fruits of the Senna plant have been used in tea as a laxative or stimulant for many years already. The leaves are also used in some teas to help alleviate digestive problems or promote weight loss.
Senna has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a non-prescription drug to treat constipation. For children, the most common dose is 8.5 milligrams (mg) per day to cause a single bowel movement. The recommended dose for children over the age of 12 and adults is 17.2 mg per day, with no more than 34.4 mg per day. The recommended dose for older adults is 17 mg per day and 28 mg per day, divided into two doses for postpartum pregnancy. Senna should not be used for more than two weeks or more.
Senna has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a non-prescription drug to treat constipation. For children, the most common dose is 8.5 milligrams (mg) per day to cause a single bowel movement. The recommended dose for children over the age of 12 and adults is 17.2 mg per day, with no more than 34.4 mg per day. The recommended dose for older adults is 17 mg per day and 28 mg per day, divided into two doses for postpartum pregnancy. It is being used in herbal teas to boost metabolism and promote weight loss, according to Ansley Hill. This product is frequently known as "skinny teas" or "teatox," but there is no scientific evidence to support the use of Senna tea for any detox, cleanse, or weight loss routine. In fact, using Senna tea in this manner could be extremely hazardous.
Senna is not recommended for frequent or long-term use, according to Medlineplus, because it may alter normal bowel tissue function and cause laxative dependence. Furthermore, a recent study of over 10,000 women discovered that those who used laxatives for weight loss were six times more likely to develop an eating disorder. Dietitians strongly advise using food supplements rather than laxatives which be considered the best and the safest choice if you're trying to lose weight and want to change your dietary and lifestyle routines.
Senna tea is generally safe for most adults and children over the age of 12. Nonetheless, it has dangers and common side effects including stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms, on the other hand, are usually mild and resolve quickly. Senna is intended to be used as a temporary constipation remedy only. Unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider, you should not use it for more than 7 days in a row. This could also result in laxative dependence, liver damage, and other serious health problems. So, think wisely before you drink!
PNFP Marie-Claire Gaas
References:
1. What Is Senna Tea, and Is It Safe?
Written by Ansley Hill, RD, LD on June 9, 2020 — Medically reviewed by Kathy W. Warwick, R.D., CDE, Nutrition
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/senna-tea
2. Is senna tea safe to drink?
Medically reviewed by Natalie Olsen, R.D., L.D., ACSM EP-C — Written by Nicole Galan, RN on January 20, 2018
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320659
3. Senna
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601112.html#brand-name-1
4. Diet Pill and Laxative Use for Weight Control and Subsequent Incident Eating Disorder in US Young Women: 2001-2016
Jordan A Levinson, Vishnudas Sarda, Kendrin Sonneville, Jerel P Calzo, Suman Ambwani, S Bryn Austin
