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Senna. A safe and effective drug
Author(s) -
Mascolo N.,
Capasso R.,
Capasso F.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
phytotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.019
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1573
pISSN - 0951-418X
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1099-1573(1998)12:1+<s143::aid-ptr277>3.0.co;2-g
Subject(s) - senna , drug , traditional medicine , medicine , pharmacognosy , pharmacology , biology , biological activity , in vitro , biochemistry
Senna consists of the dried leaves and fruits of Cassia acutifolia and C. angustifolia. The principal active constituents of senna are dianthrone glycosides whose aglycone is rhein. Rhein‐induced laxative effects occur through two distinct mechanisms: an increase in intestinal fluid transport and an increase in intestinal motility. Senna taken in recommended doses may lead to abdominal complaints whilst prolonged use causes melanosis coli. In recent years mutagenic effects of anthraquinone glycosides have been proven in in vitro tests, however studies in vivo do not confirm this for senna. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.