Discover the Power of African Senna

Medicinal Uses, Cultivation & Benefits

Dr.N.K.MANOHARAN

        I noticed this plant on my way home. I have passed by it many times before, but I saw it today, and the reason I noticed it was because of its beautiful flowers. Moreover, I felt a curiosity to know what kind of plant this is. Maybe some of you know about it or have seen it, so if you share what you know about this plant in the comment box, it will be useful to all who watch this video. This is a plant on the side of Elappara Kattappana road in Idukki district. At the time this video was taken, there was a strong January wind blowing, and it was sunny, but that didn't deter me from my efforts, as you can see from watching the video. African Senna is a medicinal plant used as a good natural laxative. Today's article covers the botanical characteristics, chemical composition, cultivation methods, medicinal uses, side effects, and economic importance of African Senna. Those who are interested can read this article till the end without skipping. It is our right to be aware of the world around us and the living things in it.

African Senna, whose scientific name is Senna Alexandrina, is a popular herb in the Fabaceae family native to northern Africa, including Egypt and Sudan. It is cultivated in India, Pakistan, and parts of the Middle East. Also known as African Senna, Popcorn Senna, Candelabra tree, and Peanut butter cassia, in Malayalam it is known by many names like Ana thakara, African thakara, etc. African Senna is one of 249 species in the Senna genus of the Fabaceae family. Although this is an African plant, it is found in a variety of habitats across the continent. Known for its nutritional properties, this plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is cultivated in many other parts of the world as an ornamental, cover crop, and green manure, but it is considered a weed in Indonesia, Australia, Mexico, and some parts of California, Florida, and Hawaii in the United States. African Senna is a shrub that usually grows to a height of about five to nine meters. It has a distinctive smell, and the pods are flat, brown, pea-like pods up to twelve centimetres long, each containing sixteen seeds up to one centimetre long.

Although African Senna is poisonous, this plant is distinguished by its leaves and pods, which contain anthraquinones and sennosides, which confer medicinal properties. Constipation can be effectively treated by stimulating bowel movements. It is commonly used in herbal teas and over-the-counter laxatives. But it helps to some extent in colon cleansing, which is often used before medical tests like colonoscopy. You can also temporarily lose weight by eliminating waste. It helps to reduce the inflammation of skin diseases like acne, ringworm, and even minor ailments, including antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria. However, improper or prolonged use of African Senna can sometimes lead to adverse effects. Its excessive use can lead to loss of potassium and essential electrolytes. As well as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance due to excessive bowel movements, long-term use may lead to bowel dependence, and the rare possibility of skin rashes and respiratory problems cannot be ruled out. Another important point is that long-term use may affect liver function. Women should avoid this during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless prescribed by the doctor. It is never recommended for children under the age of twelve. A doctor's advice should be strictly sought before prolonged use or persistent constipation.

It exhibits antibacterial properties against pathogenic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract as well as skin and hair protection and is used topically for skin diseases such as acne and fungal infections. It is included in cosmetics and hair care products for its cleansing properties. Moreover, in Ayurveda and Unani, it is used in the traditional treatment of fever, haemorrhoids, and menstrual disorders. Although African Senna is effective, it should be used responsibly to avoid adverse effects. Apart from its medicinal uses, its leaves are also used in the cosmetic industry, as well as green manure to increase soil fertility. Also, this plant is traditionally used in many rituals and some medicines in Africa and the Middle East. African Senna is a valuable medicinal plant with a rich history of use. Although its benefits are well documented, always consult a healthcare professional before using Senna-based products to ensure safe and effective use. The primary parts used for medicinal purposes are the leaves and pods. African Senna is widely used in traditional and modern medicine. Common side effects include abdominal pain, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance, as prolonged use can lead to loss of potassium in the body. Long-term use may cause a decrease in natural bowel function.

Some studies suggest that diarrhoea caused by excessive consumption can lead to fluid loss, allergies, skin rashes, respiratory problems, intestinal obstruction, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis. The low-maintenance African Senna is thriving well in hot, dry climates, in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and in a wide variety of habitats, from grasslands to riverbanks and woodlands. Well-drained sand or clay loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH favours this plant; moderate irrigation is sufficient, but it can tolerate some drought. The plant is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of soils, making it a resilient species in the challenging environments of Africa. It needs six to seven hours of full sunlight per day. It is generally propagated by seeds, but the seeds should be specially prepared for this, and these seeds should be soaked in warm water for twelve to twenty-four hours for rapid germination. Only after that can the seeds be sown directly in the soil or sown in pots. Reduce the amount of water to prevent the plant's roots from rotting. Add organic compost to enrich the soil. Remove weeds regularly to prevent competition for nutrients. This plant is relatively easy to grow, making it an excellent addition to herb gardens in suitable climates. This plant is drought tolerant and adapts to dry areas by preventing soil erosion. It can also be used as a good green manure.

 In addition to its medicinal uses, African Senna is often cultivated for ornamental purposes, making it an integral part of garden ecosystems due to its spectacular flowers' ability to attract bees, butterflies, and birds. African Senna plays a critical role in its native habitat. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it benefits nearby plants by accumulating nitrogen and increasing soil fertility. Another benefit is its robust root system, which helps to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion in vulnerable areas. The plant provides nectar for pollinators and serves as a habitat for various insects and small animals. Embracing the interrelationship of nature, culture, and science, it shows how the plant can influence ecosystems and support livelihoods, as well as African Senna being a major export product to countries such as Egypt and India. It is widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, economic and ecological importance, and contributes to the local economy, and this is what we have to share with you today.