Sonamukhi (Senna) - Health Benefits and Contraindications

Cassia angustifolia vahl, commonly known as Senna. In Tamil it is known as swarna patri is well known for its various medicinal properties in Indian systems of medicine

This plant is native to India, Arab and some African countries. The shrub grows to 2-3 feet in height and is typically identified by its spear shaped pointed leaves pale yellowish - green in color.

Ayurvedic Action

Health Benefits

Constipation

Senna helps in managing constipation due to its laxative property. It contains certain constituents that help loosen the stool and speed up the bowel movement. It also promotes easy excretion of the stool. Senna might be good for colon cleansing due to its laxative and purgative properties. It promotes bowel movements and helps in easy excretion of stool.

Diabetes mellitus

Senna helps in diabetes due to its anti-diabetic property. It contains certain constituents that reduce the breakdown as well as absorption of carbohydrates in the body. It helps to increase the secretion of insulin, thereby lowering the levels of blood glucose and managing diabetes.

Worm infestation

Senna helps in preventing worm infestation due to its anthelmintic properties. It expels the parasitic worms from the body without causing any harm to the host.

Hemorrhoids

Senna might help manage Hemorrhoids by preventing constipation. It has laxative property which improves bowel movement and promotes easy passage of stool. This prevents constipation and thus the development of Hemorrhoids.

IBS

Senna helps to  manage Irritable bowel syndrome by allowing the easy passage of stools due to its laxative property.

Weight management

Senna powder helps to reduce the excessive fat in the body, due to its appetizing property. It also removes waste material from the intestines and provides relief from constipation due to its Rechana (laxative) property, further contributing to Weight management.

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor).

Senna Powder - 0.5-2 g a day or as directed by a physician.

• Consuming large doses of Sonamukhi causes diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
• Prolonged usage results in weak bones, aching joints and loss of appetite.
• It may change the color of urine to red or brown.
• Menstruating and pregnant women should avoid using it.
• Indiscriminate usage causes constipation the very reason for which it is used.
• Children below the age of 12 years should avoid usage.

References:

1. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India. Part 1 Volume 1.
2. https://www.plantsjournal.com/vol1Issue1/Issue_may_2013/5.pdf
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4719482/