Cassia

What is it

The Cassia, from the botanical name Cassia angustifolia, is a sapling or shrub of the legume family also called Senna.

It grows in hot and dry climates and is native to North Africa and the Middle East. The pulp of the pods, the leaves and the roots have been used as a laxative for centuries.

Activity

The laxative action of Cassia is carried out through the stimulation of peristalsis of the large intestine and is due to the presence of some substances, called anthraquinones, which stimulate the contraction of the muscles of the colon and favor the elimination of feces.

It has a cooling effect also thanks to the presence of glucose and fructose, is absorbed by the small intestine and acts on the colon only after being transported there by blood.

The action of Cassia is carried out not only through the stimulation of the nerve plexuses of the colon, but also through the inhibition of the reabsorption of water and mineral salts by the intestine, so as to increase the liquids present and improve the volume and softness of the stool.

Why is it used

Cassia is used to treat occasional constipation (constipation) but should be used occasionally, otherwise the conditions of constipation may worsen.

How to use it

Usually the dosage used as a laxative is 100-200 mg daily, in a single evening administration, of dry extract titrated in sennoside B minimum 2.2%.

It should not be used for more than 3 days in a row and the laxative effect manifests itself after 12-16 hours.

Effects

In case of individual hypersensitivity or if the recommended doses are exceeded, Cassia can cause severe abdominal pain and diarrhea and, consequently, loss of mineral salts such as potassium and sodium and magnesium.

Its abuse, as for all laxatives that contain anthraquinones, can lead to addiction: the intestine no longer works properly and peristalsis is greatly reduced (lazy intestine).

Precautions

Cassia should not be used during pregnancy because it can cause abdominal contractions either during breastfeeding or in children under 14 years of age.

It is contraindicated in those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders, colitis, diverticulosis, intestinal obstruction or liver, kidney or heart disease.

Interactions

Cassia may interact with heart medications, such as quinidine antiarrhythmics, digitalis, beta blockers and fenoxedil; diuretics that cause potassium loss such as furosemide; vincamine and some analgesics.