Some people drink senna tea to help relieve constipation. However, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects and drug interactions.

Senna is an herb that comes from several different flowering species of the Cassia plants. People have used the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the senna plant as a laxative or stimulant for centuries

Types of Cassia senna plants include the C. acutifolia and C. angustifolia plants, which grow in the Middle East and India.

Read on to learn more about the possible uses and benefits of senna tea. This article also looks at the side effects and drug interactions it can cause.

Some people use senna tea as a laxative to help relieve constipation.

The Bladder & Bowel Community suggests that senna tea can help the digestive tract contract, which may help manage constipation.

A 2022 review recommends taking senna tea before bedtime. It can take around 6 to 12 hours for it to take effect.

Some research has looked at the possible benefits of senna in protecting against COVID-19. While senna leaves may help boost the immune system, there is no evidence to suggest that senna can directly prevent or treat COVID-19.

Learn more about herbal teas for constipation.

People with certain medical conditions should not use senna, including:

Nobody under the age of 18 should take senna without a doctor’s recommendation.

Pregnancy and nursing

It is unclear whether senna is safe to take when pregnant. Senna may or may not be safe for use during pregnancy. Pregnant people with constipation should speak with their doctor before using senna or any other laxative.

Senna appears to be generally safe for people who are nursing when they take it in the recommended amount. Only a small amount of the herb passes into the breast milk.

Side effectsTrusted Source of senna can vary in type or severity, but examples include:

A person should note down any potential side effects that develop. It is important to stop taking senna and consult a doctor, particularly if side effects are severe or ongoing.

In rare cases, senna can cause a severe allergic reaction. A person should seek immediate medical help if this happens.

Anaphylaxis: Symptoms and what to do

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:

  • hives
  • swelling of the face or mouth
  • wheezing
  • fast, shallow breathing
  • a fast heart rate
  • clammy skin
  • anxiety or confusion
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • blue or white lips
  • fainting or loss of consciousness

If someone has these symptoms:

  1. Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
  2. Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
  3. Assist the person in moving from a sitting position to lying down. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
  4. Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.

Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.

There are several drug interactions to keep in mind. By being aware of these, people can make sure that they are drinking senna tea safely.

People taking the following medications or herbal supplements should avoid taking senna:

  • Digoxin: Senna can cause electrolyte imbalances in the body, especially in potassium levels. Low potassium can cause problems for someone taking digoxin.
  • Warfarin: A 2020 study found that senna can interact with warfarin, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Diuretics: Like senna, some diuretics can also decrease potassium and other electrolyte levels. Taking these two medications together can cause potassium levels to drop to a dangerous level.
  • Licorice root: A person should avoid taking both licorice root and senna together without first consulting a doctor.
  • Other laxatives: Avoid taking any other laxatives at the same time. If senna tea does not relieve constipation, talk with a doctor about other remedies that may help.

It is best to contact a doctor for advice before taking senna tea. The doctor can advise on whether it is likely to interact with any medications the individual is currently taking.

Some people drink senna tea to help relieve constipation. Some research suggests that it may also help support the immune system, though more research is necessary.

Senna tea may cause side effects, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and weight loss. Some side effects can be more severe and longer lasting. In rare cases, senna can cause an allergic reaction.

Senna may also interact with drugs such as digoxin and warfarin. It is advisable to avoid taking senna alongside other laxatives.

It is best to consult a doctor before drinking senna tea or taking senna in any other form. The doctor can advise on the safety of senna based on the person’s individual circumstances.