Cassia angustifolia

 

Cassia angustifolia [Image]. [2014]. Retrieved from: http://www.hcms.org.in/product_detail.php?product=29

Common name: 
Senna Pods 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 
 

Latin binomial:
Cassia angustifolia
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 
 

Family: 
Fabicceae 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 
   

Parts used:
Dried fruit pods
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 

Active constituents:
Anthraquinones 
 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 225).  

Actions:
Cathartic
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 
 

Indications:
The Senna pods are used as a powerful cathartic treatment for constipation 
 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 

Contraindications: 
You need to be careful if treating constipation to recognition that the constipation is a result of something else and not the initial cause 
 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 

Dosage:

• Infusion: the dried pods should be steeped warm water for 6-12 hours
• Tincture: take 2-7 ml of the tincture three times a day

 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 

Combinations: 
Combining senna pods with aromatic and carminative herbs is suggested to increase palatability and reducing griping, for example using cardamom, ginger or fennel 
 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 225). 

References:

Hoffman, D. (1983) The holistic herbal. Element books: Dorset.