Native to India and Africa, the senna plant is widely used by people who suffer from constipation and has even been used for weight loss. However, regular consumption is not recommended because it can cause acute intestinal problems. In this post, we'll discuss the benefits of senna tea , its ingredients, and contraindications.
Benefits of Senna Tea
It is important to know the benefits of this tea to take advantage of all its properties.
Helps treat constipation
Senna leaves are known to have laxative properties, helping to combat the symptoms of constipation. This is its main use, and its effectiveness is almost immediate. However, it should be used punctually; it is not advisable to consume it for long periods of time.
Prevents the formation of hemorrhoids
Another of its great properties is that it improves and prevents the appearance of hemorrhoids. It is precisely the prolonged constipation that causes this condition that causes them.
Detoxifies the body
Drinking a senna leaf infusion helps cleanse the body. One of the reasons it's used is for weight loss; however, it's not recommended because it can cause side effects .
Prevents fluid retention
One of the benefits of senna tea is that it eliminates fluid retention, thanks to its diuretic properties. It also improves the urinary tract, making it easier to expel urine.
Avoid gallstones
Senna tea is an excellent cholagogue (which facilitates the expulsion of bile). Expelling excess bile reduces the chance of gallstones forming. These often cause significant pain and impair the body's ability to detoxify.
Eliminates intestinal parasites
Doctors recommend taking a dewormer to rid the intestines of parasites. For adults, a single senna leaf is enough to eliminate them.
How to prepare Senna tea
To reap the benefits of senna tea , you need to know how to prepare it. It's no different from any other tea, but it's worth mentioning a few things. It's common to find it combined with other medicinal plants, such as mint, fennel, and ginger, because they soften the bitter taste and add other properties to the infusion.
Preparing it is simple: just heat water (don't boil it, so as not to irritate the stomach lining). Once it's ready, let it sit for a few minutes to release all the beneficial substances. It's best to drink it before going to bed so that it takes effect overnight and you can have normal bowel movements the next morning.
Senna leaf products are usually found in health food stores or herbalists. Treatment with these leaves should not exceed 10 days.
Benefits of senna tea. Contraindications
We already know the benefits, but now it's important to know what the contraindications or negative health effects are.
During pregnancy or breastfeeding
It is not recommended for pregnant women to drink senna tea because it can affect smooth muscle tissue, which could cause premature contractions and even miscarriage. It should also be avoided by breastfeeding women because its laxative effects could affect the baby. This could cause complications that could lead to serious illness.
Excessive consumption
Senna tea should not be consumed for more than two weeks; it should be consumed occasionally because it can cause complications for the liver, intestines, and heart. Some people choose to drink it daily for constipation, but this is a bad idea. If you don't feel better within a few days, it's best to see a doctor.
To lose weight
Many people consume senna tea to lose weight, but it's not recommended. The effects it may have on metabolism aren't fully understood. If your goal is to lose weight , it's best to exercise and eat a healthy diet based on vegetables, fruits, and natural juices, avoiding fried foods.
To treat digestive problems
Drinking too much senna tea can cause gastrointestinal problems or diarrhea, so it's best to do so only if your stools are very firm. It's not recommended for people who suffer from digestive problems or ulcers.
Allergies
If you've never taken senna leaves before, it's best to do so in small amounts and gradually. This will help determine if you experience any allergic reactions associated with tissue inflammation. Part of your face is likely to be affected; if your airways become inflamed, it can be dangerous.
Effect on certain medications
Senna tea can adversely affect some medications; for example, it has been shown to cause adverse reactions with aspirin. If you are taking any medication and want to drink senna tea, it's best to consult your doctor.
In addition, other ills that arise from excessive consumption of senna leaves are the following:
- It can cause digestive problems because it eliminates the good bacteria in the gut. This causes gas, stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
- Nutrients are poorly absorbed. Because the intestinal tract accelerates, food absorption is minimal, so most nutrients are excreted in the feces.
- The muscles of the intestine lose tone, then stop performing their functions, causing them to depend on the colon.
- Direct contact with the Senna plant may cause dermatitis or hypersensitivity.
