10 Natural Laxatives
Laxative #7: Senna
Senna is an herb extracted from the plant Senna alexandrina. It is often used as a natural laxative that is a stimulant. Senna can be found in many over-the-counter products such as Senokot, Senna-Lax, and Ex-Lax.
The laxative properties of Senna can be attributed to the sennoside found in the plant. Sennosides are compounds that increase the movement of the digestive system and help stimulate a bowel movement. Senna also helps improve the absorption of fluid into the colon to aid the passing of stools. Adverse effects of Senna include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and abdominal pain. It should also be noted that Senna can be a habit forming laxative that, if taken too often or abused, can created a tolerance that then requires higher doses.
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