What it does
Cassia is a natural product often used for its potential health benefits.
Commonly used for: constipation, digestive issues
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:41 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:05
About cassia
Cassia is a natural product often used for its potential health benefits.
What it treats
- constipation
- digestive issues
How it works
Cassia works by stimulating bowel movements and improving digestion.
Who it's for
Cassia may be suitable for adults needing relief from constipation or digestive discomfort.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About senna
Senna is a natural laxative used to relieve constipation.
What it treats
- constipation
- occasional constipation
How it works
Senna works by stimulating the muscles in the bowel, helping to move stool through the intestines.
Who it's for
Senna is suitable for adults and children who need relief from constipation.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: cassia
Cassia, often referred to as cassia cinnamon, is a spice derived from the bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree. It is commonly used in foods for flavoring and has been associated with a variety of medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, cassia has been utilized for its potential benefits in managing conditions like diabetes, digestive issues, and inflammation. It contains compounds such as coumarin, which may have effects on blood sugar levels and antioxidant activity.
Indications
- Type 2 diabetes management
- Digestive disorders
- Anti-inflammatory support
- Antioxidant activity
- Weight management
- Blood sugar regulation
Dosage
Children: Refer to established guidelines for specific dosing based on the formulation and intended use.
Adults: Refer to established guidelines for specific dosing based on the formulation and intended use.
Mechanism of action
The active compounds in cassia, particularly cinnamaldehyde and coumarin, may exert their effects by modulating various metabolic pathways. Cinnamaldehyde has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, thereby improving glucose uptake in cells. The antioxidant properties of cassia may help reduce oxidative stress, which is implicated in various chronic diseases. Coumarin has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects and may influence blood coagulation pathways.
Pharmacodynamics
Cassia exhibits a range of pharmacodynamic effects primarily due to its bioactive compounds. Its anti-inflammatory properties can contribute to reduced inflammation markers in the body. The ability of cassia to potentially lower blood glucose levels is of particular interest, especially in the management of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, its antioxidant effects help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of cassia components can vary based on the specific compounds and their formulations. Generally, compounds like cinnamaldehyde are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver. The half-life and excretion pathways can vary, but many of the bioactive constituents are rapidly metabolized and eliminated. The systemic bioavailability of these compounds can be influenced by factors such as the form of cassia consumed and the presence of other dietary components.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Dehydration
Interactions
- May enhance the effect of diuretics
- May interact with medications that affect electrolyte levels
Precautions
- Use with caution in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders
- Monitor electrolyte levels in prolonged use
- Not recommended for long-term use
Pregnancy
Cassia is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to a lack of safety data. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Breast-feeding
Use with caution while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Dried leaves
- Powdered form
- Tea preparations
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: Senna
BNF-referencedSenna is a natural stimulant laxative derived from the leaves and pods of the Senna plant, primarily used to treat constipation. It works by stimulating bowel movements through irritation of the intestinal lining, which increases peristalsis and enhances the motility of the large intestine. It is commonly employed in both general and palliative care settings.
Indications
- Constipation
- Palliative care for bowel cleansing
Dosage
Children: Child 1 month–3 years: 3.75–15 mg once daily, adjusted according to response. Child 4–17 years: 3.75–30 mg once daily, adjusted according to response.
Adults: 7.5–15 mg once daily (max. per dose 30 mg daily), typically taken at bedtime. The initial dose should be low and increased gradually as needed, with higher doses prescribed under medical supervision.
Mechanism of action
Senna contains sennosides, which are metabolized in the colon to form active compounds that stimulate the peristaltic movement of the intestines. This promotes bowel evacuation by increasing the contraction of intestinal muscles and enhancing fluid secretion into the bowel, leading to softer stools.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effect of senna includes increased intestinal motility and secretion of electrolytes and water into the intestines, resulting in softened stools and facilitation of bowel movements. Side effects may include abdominal cramps and gastrointestinal disturbances, as well as potential skin reactions.
Pharmacokinetics
Senna is not absorbed significantly in the gastrointestinal tract; its active metabolites exert their effects locally in the intestines. The onset of action is typically within 6 to 12 hours when taken orally. Metabolism occurs in the gut, and excretion is primarily via feces, with minimal systemic absorption.
Contra-indications
- Acute abdominal conditions
- Acute inflammatory bowel disease
- Intestinal obstruction
- Severe dehydration
Adverse effects
- Abdominal cramps
- Asthenia
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Skin reactions
- Urine discolouration
Precautions
- Excessive use of stimulant laxatives can cause diarrhea and related effects such as hypokalaemia
- Local irritation - avoid prolonged contact with skin (incontinent patients or infants wearing nappies, risk of irritation and excoriation)
- Rodent studies indicate potential carcinogenic risk
Pregnancy
Manufacturers advise to avoid - limited information available.
Breast-feeding
Manufacturers advise to avoid - no information available.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Formulations
- Oral suspension
- Tablets
- Syrup
- Suppositories
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: Senna
PubChem CID 73111Molecular formula: C42H38O20
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.
- FRANKABOT MIST SENNACO SOLUTION (Each 100ml contains Magnesium sulphate/ Liquid liquorice extract/ Senna infusion/ Cardamon extract 25g/ 1ml/ 0.5ml/ 0.5ml) · Frankabot Pharmacuetical
- KORDE MIST SENNA CO LAXATIVE (Each 10ml contains Magnesium sulphate/ Liquid liquorice extract/ Senna infusion/ Cardamon extract 20g/ 0.01%v/v/ 0.01%v/v/ 0.0075%v/v) · Korde Chemist
- LIQUID ( MAGNESIUM SULPHATE/ CONC SENNA INFUSION 250mg/0.90ml) · Phersons Pharmacy
- MATITI-MIST SENNACO SYRUP ( Magnesium Sulphate Conc. Senna Infusion, Liquorice Liquid Extract 250mg/0.83ml/0.5m) · Mal Titi Chemists