Herbs
Senna
Also called: senna leaf, sennosides
A plant laxative, also sold as a medicine.
- Why people take it
- Constipation.
- What the evidence says
- Works as a short-term laxative.
- How it is usually taken
- Usually 7.5 to 15 mg of sennosides at bedtime, for short periods.
- Be careful
- Cramps; long-term use can cause dependence and low potassium. Not for children without advice.
- Medicines it can interact with
- Long use lowers potassium (worse with diuretics, steroids and digoxin).
Other herbs
Common questions
What is Senna?
A plant laxative, also sold as a medicine.
Why do people take Senna?
Constipation.
Does Senna work?
Works as a short-term laxative.
How much Senna do people take?
Usually 7.5 to 15 mg of sennosides at bedtime, for short periods.
Is Senna safe?
Cramps; long-term use can cause dependence and low potassium. Not for children without advice.
Does Senna interact with medicines?
Long use lowers potassium (worse with diuretics, steroids and digoxin).
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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