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What Are the Medical Uses of Cassia Angustifolia?

Kate O'Rourke
Kate O'Rourke

Cassia angustifolia, more commonly known as senna, is an herb with laxative qualities. The medical uses of Cassia angustifolia include the treatment of intestinal conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and hemorrhoids. It also can be used to treat hemorrhoids or as a laxative. A native plant of Africa, Cassia angustifolia's use as a laxative can be traced to the ninth century.

This herb contains chemicals called sennosides, which create a laxative effect by irritating the bowel lining. The resulting intestinal contractions help move waste material through the digestive system, which makes this herb an effective treatment for constipation. This herb can be used as a nonprescription laxative for anyone who is more than 2 years old. It also can be used to clean out the bowels prior to a colonoscopy.

Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.

Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used to treat hemorrhoids, which are inflamed and swollen rectal veins that typically are caused by excessive straining and constipation. The herb acts as a stool softener, easing pressure on the veins and allowing them to return to their normal state. It also has been used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, which is a condition that causes abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea, discomfort and constipation. The symptoms of IBS can vary greatly from person to person, but for those who suffer constipation rather than loose bowels, Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used as a laxative.

The senna plant can be used as a laxative.
The senna plant can be used as a laxative.

This herb can cause stomach cramps and diarrhea, and it should not be used by individuals who have abdominal obstructions. It also can lessen the effectiveness of other medications by accelerating their passage through the digestive tract, thereby decreasing their absorption. Cassia angustifolia should not be taken with diuretics, because the combination can result in an excessive loss of potassium.

Cassia angustifolia may be used to relieve constipation.
Cassia angustifolia may be used to relieve constipation.

Although it is effectively used as a laxative, Cassia angustifolia's effectiveness as a treatment for hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome is less certain. As such, it is both suggested and contraindicated in its use for these conditions, depending on the source. The recommended dosage varies based on the patient's age. A woman who has constipation as a result of pregnancy should not exceed a certain dosage. A healthcare professional can help a patient choose the proper dosage.

Discussion Comments

anon992832

@Rama: I had the same problem: a 4 cm inguinal hernia. I took hernica and acidim for three months and it helped, but it didn't get cured. I had to order another 3 months' worth as the company says 6 months cure time. Now I've taken it for 5 months, my hernia is very soft and doesn't hurt at all.

Warning: Take medicines on time as prescribed or it may make you sick at your stomach. Hope this helps

anon947928

I have been suffering from a Right Ingunal Hernia for the last 10 months.

Recently I came across a company selling a product called "Hernica" for the cure of hernias. It is an ayurvedic product. It contains the following herbs: Pongamia glabra, Cassia angustifolia, Ferula asafoetida and Holarrhena antidysenterica. They advised that the medicine should be used for three months.

One of my friend says that Cassia angustifolia should be for short term treatment only and should not be used for three months and advised me to consult an ayurvedic physician.

Please therefore advise me whether I may use the medicine for three months. -- Rama M.

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    • Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
      By: joshya
      Cassia angustifolia is sometimes used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
    • The senna plant can be used as a laxative.
      By: emer
      The senna plant can be used as a laxative.
    • Cassia angustifolia may be used to relieve constipation.
      By: rob3000
      Cassia angustifolia may be used to relieve constipation.
    • Cassia angustifolia may help to relieve bloating.
      By: michaeljung
      Cassia angustifolia may help to relieve bloating.
    • Cassia angustifolia may cause stomach cramps.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Cassia angustifolia may cause stomach cramps.
    • A healthcare professional can determine if cassia angustifolia is a valid form of treatment, and what the dosage for a patient should be.
      By: s_l
      A healthcare professional can determine if cassia angustifolia is a valid form of treatment, and what the dosage for a patient should be.
    • Cassia angustifolia may be useful for treating hemorrhoids.
      By: Andrea Danti
      Cassia angustifolia may be useful for treating hemorrhoids.
    • Individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome may experience nausea and vomiting.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome may experience nausea and vomiting.