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Senna for weight loss: herb, leaves, tea, pills, decoction
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025

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Senna is a plant with laxative and cleansing properties, which is very often used to eliminate constipation. Let's consider its effectiveness in losing weight.
Senna (Cassia acutifolia, Alexandrian leaf) is a tropical plant with cleansing and healing properties. It contains anthraglycosides, which have the following effects:
- Laxative effect – used for atonic constipation, gently cleanses the intestines of waste and toxins.
- Removes harmful substances from the body, which are one of the causes of excess weight.
- Prevents the absorption of fat into the intestinal walls and promotes its elimination.
As a rule, senna is not used in its pure form, it is mixed with other medicines. Herbal infusions are prepared from it to cleanse the intestines, improve colon motility. The plant can be purchased in tablet form, as well as its dry leaves and fruits.
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Indications senna for weight loss
Alexandrian leaf is a popular remedy in alternative medicine. The leaves and fruits of the plant, which have the shape of beans, have medicinal properties. Laxatives that stimulate the gastrointestinal tract are made on its basis. This helps remove toxins and prevents the absorption of fatty acids in the intestines. This mechanism of action is aimed at losing weight and cleansing the body.
Let's look at the main indications for using senna for weight loss:
- Excess weight.
- Intestinal atony.
- Proctitis.
- Frequent constipation.
- Problems with stool due to anal fissures and hemorrhoids.
The laxative effect occurs 5-10 hours after use. However, cleansing cannot be done more often than once every 30 days. If the drug is used for weight loss, it can only be used from the age of 16. Gastritis with high acidity, gastric and duodenal ulcers and chronic duodenitis are direct contraindications for senna.
With the right approach to weight loss and the cleansing process, cassia shows an amazing effect and allows you to lose up to 3 kg per week. The rate of metabolic processes and the work of the urinary system are increased. This increases the protective properties of the immune system, removes harmful substances. But do not forget that an incorrectly selected dosage or use of the product without medical advice can cause adverse reactions.
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Release form
The plant is not used in its pure form. The form of release depends on its purpose. The product is available in the following form:
- Chewable tablets and tablets for oral use.
- Film-coated capsules that dissolve in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Crushed leaves in paper and filter bags.
- Chewable lozenges and dragees.
- Solution for oral administration in a bottle.
Senna is added to various herbal infusions to cleanse the intestines. Tablets and syrup make the process of use easier, since there is no need to brew or insist them. Dried fruits and leaves are suitable for making decoctions and infusions.
There are many medications that are aimed at weight loss.
Senna tablets for weight loss
Senna tablets for weight loss are popular for their laxative effect, which promotes natural cleansing of the body.
The main advantages of the tablets:
- Beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal system.
- Stimulation of intestinal peristalsis.
- Highly effective in weight loss.
- Minimum contraindications and side effects.
- Absence of synthetic components.
Since the drug has a strong laxative effect, it is better to stay at home during its use. Before using the herbal remedy, it is recommended to consult a doctor. This is due to the fact that an incorrectly selected dosage can cause side effects. It is better to take the tablets at night, since the laxative effect occurs after 7-8 hours. To achieve good results, the drug must be combined with proper nutrition and exercise.
Senna herb for weight loss
Alexandrian leaf is a plant used to cleanse the body and normalize weight. Senna herb for weight loss contains anthraglycosides, which have a laxative effect, as well as alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, phytosterols, organic acids and other substances. If we compare this herb with other plants used for weight loss, senna guarantees a more effective effect.
- The plant stimulates active contraction of the intestines.
- Prevents fat absorption.
- Increases bile secretion.
- Removes excess fluid, waste, toxins and fat deposits from the body.
The herb is used to prepare infusions and decoctions. It is best to take it at night, ½ cup at a time, while the course of therapy should not be longer than 7 days. In the first days of treatment, colic in the abdomen may occur, which quickly passes. To improve the taste of the plant, you can add honey, fruits or other herbal mixtures.
Senna tea for weight loss
Cassia is included in many preparations and herbal infusions for cleansing the body. Senna tea for weight loss is a drink with laxative properties that are aimed at cleansing the intestines and the body as a whole. The plant removes excess fluid, toxins, harmful substances and breaks down fat deposits.
To prepare the tea, use dry leaves and fruits, pour boiling water over them and leave for 20-30 minutes. The resulting infusion should be taken ½ cup once a day, preferably before bedtime. You can buy ready-made filter bags with a specially selected dosage at the pharmacy. The course of treatment should be no more than 5-7 days.
The weight loss effect is achieved by increasing the stimulation of intestinal contractions and preventing fat absorption. The tea increases bile secretion and increases the frequency of bowel movements. Long-term use of the product causes the intestines to become accustomed to stimulation, causing chronic constipation. Painful sensations in the gastrointestinal tract may also occur, which disappear after discontinuing the drug. Before using senna tea, consult a doctor.
Senna decoction for weight loss
Alexandrian leaf is available in several forms of release, it can be herbal raw materials or concentrate in the form of tablets, capsules, powder. Senna decoction for weight loss is most often prepared from dried leaves and fruits. It is enough to take 10 g of dry raw materials, pour hot water and let it brew for 30 minutes. The resulting decoction must be filtered and taken 150-200 ml once a day.
The decoction can be prepared using senna in special filter bags. Place 4 bags of 6 g in a glass container and pour 250 ml of boiling water. The drink should be infused until completely cooled. This decoction is taken ½ cup at night for 14-21 days. Before use, the product must be shaken, as sediment may form. The finished decoction can be stored for no longer than 48 hours.
This weight loss remedy is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Its long-term use is addictive, so it is recommended to combine senna with other herbal laxatives.
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Senna seeds for weight loss
Senna seeds are often used to treat constipation, lose weight and normalize the gastrointestinal tract. For weight loss, tablets, capsules and dry powder in bags for infusions and decoctions are prepared from the herbal remedy. Dry stems, leaves and fruits of cassia are used for medicinal purposes. The plant's popularity is explained by its composition. Cassia acutifolia contains anthraglycosides, which have a pronounced laxative effect. The active components irritate the receptors of the gastrointestinal mucosa, reduce the level of secretion and increase peristalsis in the large intestine.
The seeds have a mild effect, so preparations made from them are approved for use in pediatrics. The weight loss effect is achieved by cleansing the body of accumulated toxins and waste. To prepare a medicinal drink, take a teaspoon of seeds and pour 250 ml of boiling water over them. After cooling, strain the infusion and take it in small sips before bed. The plant gently cleanses the intestines from fecal matter and normalizes stool. Since the seeds have a choleretic effect, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist before using them.
Senna dry extract for weight loss
For the treatment of constipation caused by hypotension or sluggish peristalsis of the colon, it is recommended to use dry senna extract. For weight loss, this remedy is used in the form of tablets and raw materials for the preparation of infusions, decoctions, tea. The dosage depends entirely on the medicinal form of cassia. It is recommended to take the remedy in the afternoon, preferably before bedtime.
Senna for weight loss is contraindicated in case of gastrointestinal bleeding, spastic constipation, acute inflammation of the abdominal cavity, peritonitis, water or electrolyte metabolism disorders. Side effects are manifested in the form of increased gas formation and paroxysmal colic in the abdomen. It is used with special caution in the last stages of obesity, liver and kidney diseases.
Pharmacodynamics
The mechanism of action, i.e. the pharmacodynamics of senna is quite primitive. When entering the body, the herb produces a powerful laxative effect, which leads to the breakdown of toxins, slags and products that accumulate on the intestinal walls. In most cases, it is the slag accumulation of the body that provokes uncontrolled weight gain.
The plant contains the following components: chrysophanolanthorone, physone, alkaloids, aloe-emodin. The peel of the fruit contains physalen, and the leaves contain rutin. The active substances cleanse the intestines like a brush. This helps to normalize motility and peristalsis. Prevents the absorption of lipids into the intestinal walls and actively removes them from the body. Alexandrian leaf is effective not only for weight loss, but also for intestinal pain, hepatitis, hemorrhoids. Laxative and diuretic herbal infusions are made on its basis.
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Pharmacokinetics
The chemical composition of senna is represented by many biologically active substances, the action of which is aimed at cleansing the body. Pharmacokinetics indicates partial absorption in the stomach and duodenum. With the blood flow, the active components enter the large intestine, irritating the receptors of its muscular membrane and increasing peristalsis. This promotes the movement of feces through the intestine and increases the frequency of defecation. The effect of cassia begins 6-10 hours after use, the stool normalizes after 2-4 days of regular use.
Due to increased peristalsis, a feeling of fermentation in the stomach may occur. The herb prevents the absorption of fats and accelerates the removal of food residues. To combat excess weight, you can use both tablets and dry senna leaves. The drug is effective in any form of release.
Dosing and administration
Weight loss with cassia is achieved by normalizing bowel function. The method of application and dosage of senna for weight loss depend on its form of release and the state of the body. The course of treatment takes from 5 to 21 days and depends on the initial weight and the desired result. Within five days, you can lose about 2 kg of weight. The effect of the drug is individual for each organism. That is, on some it produces a powerful laxative effect, while on others it does not cause any reactions.
In order to get rid of a couple of extra kilos, you can use tablets or tea. Take 2-4 tablets two hours after the last meal for 7 days. Brew tea from one filter bag and 200 ml of boiling water. The drink should be infused for 10 minutes, after which it should be drunk.
If senna leaves or fruits are used, they can be brewed and taken as tea or combined with other herbal infusions or dried fruits. In any case, during such treatment, you need to follow a gentle diet, that is, give up harmful and fatty foods. Also, do not forget about physical activity. In combination, this approach to weight loss will allow you to achieve good results.
Senna recipes for weight loss
There are many means and methods to get rid of excess weight. Recipes with senna for weight loss are aimed at reducing weight and cleansing the body. Let's consider the most effective and popular of them:
- Pour 25 g of dry grass into 250 ml of water and simmer for 5 minutes, i.e. until boiling. The remedy should be infused for 20 minutes, after which it can be strained. It is recommended to take this drink every evening before bed or 2 hours after the last meal. The initial dosage is 1/3 cup with a further increase to 250 ml. The course of treatment is 7-10 days. The finished decoction can be stored in the refrigerator for no longer than 24 hours.
- Mix 25 g of senna leaves with the same amount of fresh parsley, nettle and dandelion. Add 10 g of mint leaves and dill seeds. Mix and grind all the ingredients thoroughly. To make an infusion, pour 250 ml of boiling water over a spoonful of the resulting gruel and let it brew for a couple of hours. Strain the drink before use. This recipe should be prepared for 5 days.
- Mix 20 g of cassia with 25 g of crushed ginger root and 200 ml of water, simmer for 15-20 minutes. Cool and strain the mixture, take it at night.
- Mix 40 g of fennel and senna seeds with the same amount of green tea. Pour boiling water over all ingredients and leave for 20 minutes. Drink before each meal.
- Using a blender or meat grinder, grind 50 g of Alexandrian leaf, 100 g of raisins and dried apricots, 200 g of figs and 400 g of prunes. All ingredients must be poured with a pre-prepared rosehip infusion (100 g of fruit per 500 ml of boiling water) or the same amount of liquid honey. The medicine is taken 1 spoon in the morning and evening. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator.
All the above recipes are aimed at cleansing the body, improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and losing weight.
Holosas, Senna and Raisins for Weight Loss
Recently, the combination of holosas, senna and raisins for weight loss has become increasingly popular. This combination of components allows you to get rid of a couple of extra pounds and strengthen your immune system.
- Holosas is a powerful choleretic agent made from rose hips. It removes toxins, slags, salts, poisons, and heavy metal ions from the body.
- Senna is a plant with powerful laxative and diuretic properties. Effectively cleanses the intestines and normalizes the gastrointestinal tract.
- Raisins are a source of minerals and vitamins. Contains potassium mineral salts, vitamins B, A, C, proteins, nitrogenous substances, fiber, thiamine, phosphorus and other microelements necessary for the body.
The combination of these substances provides a stable and more pronounced weight loss result. To prepare the medicine, pour 200 g of raisins with 2 liters of clean water and boil for 5 minutes. Add 50 cassia and boil for another 10 minutes. The resulting broth should be cooled and filtered. Holosas is added to the ready drink. It is better to take the remedy before bedtime, 100 ml.
This phytocomplex has a powerful effect on the digestive system, soothes, boosts the immune system, and improves sleep. Using this recipe for 14 days, you can lose about 10 kg. Since senna has a pronounced laxative effect, you need to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Senna leaves for weight loss
An effective remedy for cleansing the intestines and fighting excess weight is senna leaves. For weight loss, infusions, decoctions, medicinal teas are prepared from them and mixed with other components. Very often, the herb is prescribed to people with obesity and constipation. The plant contains anthraglycosides, which have a laxative and diuretic effect.
The leaves contain rutin, a substance that replenishes the deficiency of vitamin B3 and PP, reduces the fragility and permeability of capillaries. The herbal remedy cleanses the intestines, releasing feces and excess fluid from the body. Prevents fat deposition on the intestinal mucosa, strengthens local immunity.
Raisins, Senna and Rosehip Syrup for Weight Loss
Another popular recipe for weight loss is raisins, senna and rosehip syrup. To lose weight, all the ingredients must be prepared as follows: pour 200 g of raisins (white variety) with 1 liter of boiling water, put 20 g of senna in a water bath, pouring 300 ml of water. The herb should boil for 20 minutes, after which it must be strained and added to the raisins. As soon as the drink from cassia and raisins cools down, you can add rosehip syrup to it. For weight loss, it is recommended to take the solution 100 ml before bedtime for 20 days in a row or with a 10-day break. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator.
Let's consider the medicinal properties of all ingredients:
- White raisins – improve the functioning of the stomach and intestines. Contains natural sugar, vitamins B1, B2 and PP, potassium, magnesium, calcium and other microelements.
- Senna is a laxative of plant origin. It normalizes bowel function and accelerates the removal of feces from the body.
- Rosehip syrup (holosas) is an extract from its fruits. It has choleretic properties and contains ascorbic acid. It effectively fights excess weight and removes harmful substances from the body.
The drink should be started with a minimum dosage so that the body can adapt to its effect. The course of treatment should not exceed 14 days. To achieve a lasting weight loss effect, it is recommended to carry out 1 cleanse every six months. This remedy can help get rid of 10 kg of excess weight.
Dried Apricots, Figs and Senna for Weight Loss
For skin care and weight normalization, it is recommended to use a product that includes dried apricots, figs and senna. For weight loss, a special mixture is prepared from these ingredients: 100 g of dried apricots and the same amount of dried figs mixed with 50 g of fresh senna leaves. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly and grind with a blender or meat grinder. If granulated cassia leaves are used, they must be poured with hot water for 10 minutes, and after they swell, mix with dried fruits and grind. If desired, to improve the taste of the mixture, you can add a couple of spoons of honey.
Useful properties of dried apricots and figs:
- Dried apricots contain a lot of fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B5, iron, phosphorus and pectin. It has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system.
- Figs are rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and other minerals. They are very filling, satisfying hunger. 3-6 fruits contain 1/3 of the daily dose of B vitamins.
It is recommended to take a medicine made from senna, dried apricots and figs, 1 spoon before bed, for 14 days.
Senna fiber for weight loss
Many weight loss products contain fiber, which improves intestinal motility and the digestive system. Fiber with senna for weight loss is a double portion of substances, the action of which is aimed at cleansing the body of accumulated feces, toxins and waste, normalizing stool.
To prepare a weight loss medicine, you need: 100 g of fiber and 50 g of Alexandrian leaf. Mix both ingredients thoroughly and eat one teaspoon in the morning and evening, washing down with water. If desired, 10 g of the plant mixture can be mixed with a glass of kefir and taken a couple of hours before bedtime.
Fiber is not digested by the body, but it contains dietary fiber, which slows the growth of glucose in the blood and reduces appetite. This substance is found in many vegetables, fruits and greens. Fiber not only fights excess weight, but also acts as an excellent preventative for constipation, frees the intestines from toxins.
Use senna for weight loss during pregnancy
Many women during pregnancy face such problems as constipation and weight gain due to edema, i.e. excess fluid in the body. To eliminate them, safe laxatives are used, usually plant-based. Senna has laxative properties, so it is suitable for expectant mothers. Its use in reduced doses is suitable for:
- Elimination of constipation of various etiologies.
- Postpartum period after cesarean section.
- Acute hemorrhoids.
- Anal fissures.
- Diet during lactation.
- To facilitate defecation in the presence of postpartum stitches on the cervix or perineum.
The plant is included in various preparations and herbal teas, the action of which is aimed at improving the digestive system and stimulating intestinal peristalsis. But before using the product, it is better to consult a doctor, since the use of senna for weight loss during pregnancy is contraindicated in most cases. This is due to possible risks to the fetus and the health of the woman.
Contraindications
Cassia has a laxative effect and cleanses the intestines well. Contraindications to its use are associated with a pronounced irritating effect on the intestines. Frequent use of the herb can lead to renal failure and intestinal dystrophy. Uncontrolled use of laxatives causes addiction and provokes constipation.
Let's look at the main contraindications:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Acute and inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Gallbladder diseases.
- Allergic reactions to the plant.
- Spastic intestinal obstruction.
- Strangulated hernia.
- Disturbances of water-salt and electrolyte balance.
- Renal, hepatic insufficiency.
- Recent abdominal surgeries.
- Patients are under 6 years of age.
In any case, before using the product to lose weight, you should consult a gastroenterologist and nutritionist.
Side effects senna for weight loss
Alexandrian leaf, like any other medicinal plants, if used incorrectly, can cause adverse reactions from many organs and systems.
Side effects of senna for weight loss are manifested by the following symptoms:
- Painful colic in the epigastric region.
- Decreased appetite.
- Hematuria or discolored urine.
- Increased gas formation.
- Skin allergic reactions.
- Inflammation of the abdominal organs.
- Internal bleeding.
- Severe diarrhea.
Most often, side effects occur due to incorrectly selected dosage. Therefore, before using this laxative, a doctor's consultation is necessary.
Overdose
Since senna has a strong laxative effect, it must be taken with extreme caution. Overdose occurs due to the use of high doses or prolonged use of the herb. In this case, the following symptoms occur:
- Intoxication of the body (severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting).
- Increased weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Impaired renal function.
- Intestinal dystrophy.
- Change in urine color.
- Frequent constipation.
When using a herbal remedy, do not forget that the body is cleansed in the first few days of treatment. With prolonged use, the herb removes useful microelements from the body, which can lead to an exacerbation or development of a number of diseases.
Interactions with other drugs
Senna is classified as a medicinal substance, so it is necessary to consult a doctor before using it. The possibility of interaction with other drugs is determined by a gastroenterologist or nutritionist.
As a rule, the herbal remedy works well in combination with other medications or medicinal herbs. If side effects occur when using several drugs, then it is worth adjusting the dosage or stopping the therapy.
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Storage conditions
Alexandrian leaf, like any other medicine, has its own storage conditions. Regardless of the form of release, senna must be kept in the original packaging, in a place protected from sunlight, moisture and inaccessible to children. Prepared decoctions or infusions should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 48 hours after preparation.
Shelf life
According to the instructions, senna for weight loss has a shelf life of 24-36 months. It depends on the form of release (tablets, syrup, dry powder, capsules, granules) and compliance with storage conditions. If the drug has changed color or smell, then it is contraindicated for use and must be disposed of.
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Reviews from those who have lost weight
Numerous positive reviews from those who have lost weight from senna confirm its effectiveness. The cleansing herb is safe for the body when used correctly. It optimizes bowel function, normalizes stool, cleanses the body of toxins and waste. But most importantly, cassia allows you to get rid of 2-4 extra pounds per week. Weight loss results depend on your initial body weight and overall health.
The course of treatment should not exceed 7-10 days, with longer use it is necessary to take weekly breaks. To achieve optimal results in weight loss and cleansing, senna should be used no more than once a month.
Doctors' reviews
If you rely on doctors' reviews, senna helps remove accumulated fecal matter, waste, toxins and excess fluid from the body, as well as normalize stool. The plant copes well with constipation, so most often the effect of weight loss is secondary.
Senna for weight loss should be prescribed by a doctor. If you decide to take the product on your own, then in any case, you should consult with doctors and carefully read the instructions for the drug. But do not forget that the cleansing effect of the plant will not get rid of fat deposits accumulated over the years. Only a healthy diet combined with sports and various biologically active supplements, which include senna, will help achieve the desired results.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Senna for weight loss: herb, leaves, tea, pills, decoction" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.