What is senna and how does it work? Unpacking this potent herbal laxative
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5 min read
Derived from the leaves and pods of the *Senna alexandrina* plant, senna is an FDA-approved, nonprescription laxative widely used for treating short-term constipation. Its mechanism of action is distinctly tied to a class of compounds called sennosides, which have a direct, stimulating effect on the muscles of the large intestine.
