Cassia Senna vs Triphala Indian

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Cassia Senna

Senna obtusifolia

Digestive

Triphala Indian

Amalaki + Bibhitaki + Haritaki

Digestive

⚠️ Pregnancy & Nursing Warnings

Cassia Senna

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Triphala Indian

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Annual of tropical Americas and pantropical weed; seeds used as laxative and coffee substitute; leaves used widely in traditional medicine.

Ayurvedic most famous formula - gentle detox and rejuvenation.

Active Compounds

anthraquinones, sennosides, emodin, chrysophanol, flavonoids

Gallic acid, Ellagic acid, Chebulinic acid, Vitamin C, Tannins

Traditional Uses

Laxative across tropics, Liver conditions in Asian and African medicine, Eye conditions in West African folk medicine, Roasted seeds as coffee substitute

Constipation, Detoxification, Eye health, Digestive tonic, Anti-aging

Modern Uses

Stimulant laxative, Antimicrobial, Research into liver conditions, Antioxidant

Gentle laxative, Antioxidant, Digestive tonic, Eye health

Adult Dosage

1–2 g leaves as laxative tea; 2–4 roasted seeds as coffee substitute

2-6g powder in warm water before bed

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Inflammatory bowel disease, Children under 12 for laxative, Prolonged use

Pregnancy, Diarrhea, Severe dehydration

Side Effects

Laxative cramping, Electrolyte depletion

Loose stools, GI discomfort initially

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E

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