Natural Senna Tea Bagged Senna tea is derived from the leaves of Cassia plants, which comprise more than 250 different species. Senna has been traditionally used as a laxative as well as to clear the bowels before tests such as colonoscopy. The senna plants are small shrubs that bear yellow or green leaflets; these can be cultivated and dried to make senna tea.
- The leaves of the senna plant are used in teas and may help relieve constipation.
- Senna tea has been marketed as a constipation treatment and a “detox” tea. It’s also often used as a weight loss aid
While a number of studies have tested the effects of senna in powder or capsule form, very few studies have looked at the potential health benefits of drinking senna tea. To date, there is no evidence that senna tea can help with detoxification or stimulate weight loss. Senna typically starts working within 6 to 12 hours after taking it. It is often taken prior to going to bed, creating the urge to defecate the next morning.