Senna Leaf Extract (Sennosides)
Also known as: Senna alexandrina, Cassia angustifolia, Cassia senna, sennosides, senna leaf
Senna is the leaf or pod of Senna alexandrina, standardized to sennosides, which are anthraquinone glycosides converted by gut bacteria into compounds that stimulate colon movement. It is a well-established over-the-counter laxative and appears in some cleanse and regularity formulas. A randomized placebo-controlled trial compared senna with magnesium oxide in adults with chronic constipation. It is intended for short-term use; prolonged daily use is associated with dependence, cramping, and electrolyte loss.
Research summary
Sennosides are metabolized to rhein anthrone, which stimulates colonic motility and fluid secretion.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mg | 15–30 mg | — | — |
Dose is expressed as mg sennosides (15 to 30 mg once daily at bedtime), matching over-the-counter labeling; the extract weight depends on standardization. Limit to short-term use (about one week) unless directed otherwise. Onset is typically 6 to 12 hours.
Standardization: Extract standardized to sennosides (commonly 10–20%); dose expressed as mg sennosides
Source material: leaf or pod extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Laxative; not appropriate for gummies aimed at general wellness.
Formulation notes
Stimulant laxative. Additive with other laxatives; may increase potassium loss when combined with diuretics.
- Laxative effect
Sources
Related ingredients
Probiotic Blend (Multi-Strain)
ProbioticA generic placeholder for a multi-strain probiotic blend, typically combining several Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species and sometimes Streptococcus thermophilus or a Bacillus spore.
Typical: 10–50 B CFU
Magnesium Citrate
MineralMagnesium bound to citric acid, one of the best-selling magnesium forms because it is inexpensive, dissolves readily, and has shown good bioavailability in comparison studies.
Typical: 150–350 mg
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)
ProbioticLGG (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, ATCC 53103) is the single most studied probiotic strain, isolated in 1985 and since reclassified as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus.
Typical: 1–10 B CFU
Berberine HCl
BotanicalAn isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from plants such as barberry, goldenseal, and Coptis, supplied as the hydrochloride salt.
Typical: 900–1,500 mg
Magnesium Oxide
MineralThe most concentrated magnesium source at about 60% elemental magnesium, which is why it dominates in multivitamins and small tablets.
Typical: 200–350 mg