​Senna alexandrina (Alexandrian Senna)

Senna alexandrina (Alexandrian Senna)

Product Name: Кассия остролистная, Senna alexandrina, Alexandriner-Senna, Sen de Alejandría, Séné de Alexandrie, سنا الإسكندرانية‎, ชุมเห็ดไทย

Synonyms: сенна, сенно-лист, александрийский лист, Cassia senna, Alexandrian senna, Tinnevelly senna, Sennesblätter, Hojas de sen, Feuilles de séné, سنامكي‎, ใบชุมเห็ดไทย

Main Indications for the Use of Senna alexandrina: Chronic atonic constipation, constipation in the elderly, constipation in bedridden patients, hemorrhoidal disease with difficult defecation, anal fissure, preparation for colonoscopy, functional disorders of colonic motility, lazy bowel syndrome, intestinal hypomotility, hypomotor colonic dyskinesia, chronic intoxication with stool disorders.

Use of Senna alexandrina in Mixtures and Complexes: Alimentary obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation, chronic cholecystitis, fatty liver degeneration, flatulence, intestinal dysbiosis, intestinal autointoxication.

Pharmacological Properties of Senna alexandrina: Laxative, stimulating intestinal motility, detoxifying, choleretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, antihyperglycemic, hypolipidemic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Senna alexandrina

Powder — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Powder): Chronic atonic constipation, constipation in the elderly, constipation in bedridden patients, hemorrhoidal disease with difficult defecation, anal fissure, functional intestinal hypomotility.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1.0–2.0 grams of powder once at night, with warm water. Taken in a course of 5–7 days when restoration of defecation is necessary.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2.5–3.0 grams once at night, in the absence of defecation for more than 48 hours, for persistent constipation in patients with paralytic intestinal hypomotility or pronounced intoxication.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 4.0 grams per day, divided into 2 doses, no more than 3 days in a row. Recommended for pronounced fecal intoxication accompanied by headache, skin rashes, and decreased appetite.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5–1.0 gram 2 times a week. Recommended for patients with chronic constipation, in conditions of physical inactivity, in the postoperative period, in preparation for long flights, and in elderly patients. Frequency — no more than 2 times a week for 1 month, followed by a break of at least 2 weeks.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 12 years of age and body weight of 40 kg or more: 0.5–1.0 gram at night. Under 12 years of age, the use of powder is not recommended due to the risk of spastic reactions and electrolyte loss. For children under 12 years of age, use only by doctor's prescription.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), intestinal obstruction, acute abdominal pain of unknown origin, tendency to diarrhea, dehydration, heart failure, electrolyte disturbances. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): The following side effects have been scientifically registered with overdose: spastic abdominal pain, loose stools, nausea, hypokalemia, sweating, short-term increased heart rate.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): Patients with body weight less than 60 kg — start with a minimum dosage of 1.0 gram. For body weight more than 90 kg, an increase in dose to 3.0 grams is possible while maintaining the standard frequency.

Preparation method (Powder): To prepare 100 grams of powder, use: dry Alexandrian senna leaves — 100 grams. The leaves are washed, dried at a temperature not exceeding 45 °C for 48 hours. Then ground into powder using a ceramic mortar or mill with a fraction calibration of no more than 0.5 mm. The powder is sifted through a metal sieve. Packaged in airtight light-proof containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a tightly closed glass container, at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C, in a dry, dark place, protected from direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening the package, use within 60 days.

Extract — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Extract): Chronic atonic constipation, hypomotor colonic dyskinesia, lazy bowel syndrome, fecal intoxication, functional intestinal hypomotility.

Standard Dosage (Extract): 150–200 milligrams of dry extract once at night, with warm water. Duration of use — up to 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Extract): 250 milligrams once at night in the absence of stool for more than 48 hours, for persistent atonic constipation, pronounced flatulence, and symptoms of autointoxication.

Maximum Dosage (Extract): 300 milligrams of dry extract once, once in preparation for instrumental examinations of the intestine (irrigography, colonoscopy). Used exclusively under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Extract): 100 milligrams once every 3 days. Recommended for patients with a sedentary lifestyle, in the postoperative period, in conditions of prolonged bed rest, and in chronic intoxication syndrome. Course — 3 weeks, then a 2-week break.

Pediatric Dosage (Extract): Used from 12 years of age with a body weight of at least 40 kg. Dosage — 50–100 milligrams once at night. For children under 12 years of age, the use of dry extract is not recommended.

Contraindications (Extract): Acute inflammatory bowel diseases, intestinal obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome with predominant diarrhea, dehydration, pronounced electrolyte disturbances, pregnancy, lactation. Safety data for children under 12 years of age have not been registered.

Side Effects (Extract): Scientifically registered: spastic abdominal pain, loose stools, hypokalemia, dizziness, transient nausea. Allergic reactions are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Extract): For body weight less than 60 kg — use no more than 150 milligrams. For body weight over 90 kg — an increase in dosage to 250 milligrams is allowed while maintaining single use.

Preparation method (Extract): To prepare 100 grams of dry extract, use: dry ground Alexandrian senna leaves — 500 grams, purified water — 1 liter. The raw material is poured with water, infused at a temperature of 60 °C for 4 hours in a water bath with stirring. Filtered through cloth. The liquid is evaporated at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C to a paste-like consistency, then dried at 40–45 °C to a powder state. The resulting dry extract is sifted and packaged in airtight dark containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Extract): Store in a dry place at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C, in an airtight dark glass container, away from direct light, moisture, and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Tincture): Chronic constipation, lazy bowel syndrome, colonic hypomotility, intestinal intoxication with stool retention, constipation in hemorrhoids.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops (approximately 1.0 milliliter) of tincture, diluted in 50 milliliters of warm water, once at night. Used in a course of up to 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops (1.5 milliliters) at night for pronounced flatulence, headache, decreased appetite, and other signs of autointoxication. Used no more than 3 days in a row.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 40 drops (2.0 milliliters) once before colonoscopy or irrigoscopy. Single use under specialist supervision is allowed.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops (0.5 milliliters) 2 times a week before bedtime. Recommended for patients with a sedentary lifestyle, in the postoperative period, for chronic constipation, and in old age. Course — 3 weeks, then a 2-week break.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Used from 12 years of age with a body weight of 40 kg or more. Allowable dosage — 5–10 drops (0.25–0.5 milliliters) in diluted form. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended.

Contraindications (Tincture): Acute inflammatory bowel processes, intestinal obstruction, diarrhea, dehydration, pregnancy, lactation, chronic alcoholism. The safety of use in children under 12 years of age and during pregnancy has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Tincture): When the dosage is exceeded, the following are possible: abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, decreased blood pressure, sleep disturbances.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): Patients with body weight less than 60 kg — start with 10–15 drops. For body weight over 90 kg — 30 drops are allowed with a single dose.

Preparation method (Tincture): To prepare 100 milliliters of Tincture, the following are required: dry ground Alexandrian senna leaves — 20 grams, 70% ethyl alcohol — 100 milliliters. Place the raw material in a dark glass container, pour alcohol over it, close with a lid. Infuse at room temperature (20–25 °C) for 14 days, shaking daily. After completion, strain the tincture through gauze, squeeze out the residue, pour into a dark glass dropper bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a tightly closed dark glass bottle at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C, away from sources of light, moisture, and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 2 years. After opening, use within 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Oil Infusion): Anal fissure, hemorrhoidal disease with inflammation, constipation with local irritation of the anal canal, contact dermatitis of the perianal area, itching and burning in the perianal zone, mucosal irritation in rectal spasms.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): 5–7 milliliters of oil infusion are administered rectally in a lying position on the left side, once a day at night. Course — up to 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 10 milliliters rectally for pronounced inflammation, itching, and fissures of the anal canal. Allowed for severe pain and local irritation, course — no more than 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): 15 milliliters per day, once rectally, used only for pronounced local pain and edema. Use for more than 3 days in a row is not allowed.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 3–5 milliliters rectally, 1–2 times a week. Recommended for patients with chronic hemorrhoids, a sedentary lifestyle, and after rectal surgeries. Course — 4 weeks, then a 2-week break.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Used from 12 years of age with a body weight of 40 kg or more. Dosage — 2–3 milliliters rectally. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended without medical supervision.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Acute inflammatory processes of the rectum (proctitis, paraproctitis), active bleeding from hemorrhoidal nodes, anal fissure with purulent discharge. There are no scientific data on the safety of use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Rarely — burning, short-term increased itching, a feeling of pressure in the rectum. When the dosage is exceeded — increased stool frequency, local hyperemia.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): For body weight less than 60 kg — 3–5 milliliters. For body weight more than 90 kg — an increase in dose to 10 milliliters is allowed.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): To prepare 100 grams of oil infusion, the following are used: dry ground Alexandrian senna leaves — 20 grams, organic cold-pressed sesame oil — 100 grams. Pour the oil over the raw material in a glass container, infuse in a water bath at a temperature of 40–45 °C for 2 hours. Then keep in a dark place at 25–30 °C for another 5 days. Strain, squeeze, filter through a cotton-gauze filter. Pour into sterile dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark airtight container at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C, in a place protected from light and moisture, away from electromagnetic sources. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Vaginal Suppositories — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Vaginal Suppositories): Vulvovaginitis of bacterial and fungal etiology, non-specific colpitis, inflammation of the vaginal mucosa in hypoestrogenism, chronic cervicitis, vaginal itching and burning, restoration of the mucosa after antibiotic therapy.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository (containing 200 milligrams of dry extract) is inserted deep into the vagina at night. Course — 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening) for 5–7 days for pronounced inflammation, burning, edema, and secretion. Used in combination with restorative phytotherapy.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): Up to 3 suppositories per day (once, for no more than 3 days), for resistant colpitis accompanied by sharp hypersecretion and pain syndrome.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): 1 suppository every other day for 10 days after a course of antibiotics or during the period of mucosal restoration in menopausal women. Repeat courses — no more than once a month.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppositories): Used only in girls over 16 years of age if necessary according to gynecological indications. Dosage — 1 suppository at night, no more than 5 days. Not used under 16 years of age.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppositories): Pregnancy, heavy bloody discharge, cervical erosion, allergy to components, tumor processes of the vagina or cervix. Safety during pregnancy and in early adolescence has not been confirmed.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppositories): Mild burning, itching, increased secretion in the first 1–2 days of use. With overdose — mucosal irritation, soreness, contact dermatitis of the external genitalia.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppositories): Not required, as the drug acts locally. However, with a body weight of less than 50 kg, monitoring for possible mucosal hyperreaction is recommended.

Preparation method (Vaginal Suppositories): For 100 grams of the drug, the following are required: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 20 grams, cocoa butter (or a mixture with sea buckthorn oil) — 80 grams. The butter is melted in a water bath at a temperature of 36–38 °C, the extract is added, and thoroughly mixed until homogeneous. Poured into vaginal molds, cooled until completely solidified, removed and packaged in blisters or foil individual packages.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppositories): Store at a temperature of 5 to 10 °C in the refrigerator, in dark packaging, without access to moisture. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening, use within 10 days.

Rectal Suppositories — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Rectal Suppositories): Chronic constipation, anal fissure, hemorrhoids with difficult defecation, intestinal autointoxication, spastic rectodysfunction, postoperative colonic hypomotility.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository (containing 150 milligrams of dry extract) is inserted rectally at night. Duration of use — 5–7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening) for pronounced fecal intoxication, headache, hypotension, as well as in elderly patients with slowed peristalsis. Course no more than 3 days.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 3 suppositories per day (every 8 hours), once, in conditions of resistant constipation in the absence of contraindications. Use no more than 2 days in a row.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): 1 suppository every other day, at night, for 2 weeks. Recommended for physical inactivity, elderly people, patients in the postoperative period, and persons in a long-term lying position. A repeat course is allowed after 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppositories): From 12 years of age with a body weight of 40 kg or more — ½ suppository (approximately 75 milligrams of extract) once every 2 days. Not used under 12 years of age. For younger children, use is allowed only by doctor's prescription in the form of an aqueous infusion.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppositories): Proctitis, paraproctitis, acute inflammation of the anorectal area, anal bleeding, intestinal obstruction, pronounced hemorrhoids with thrombosis. The safety of use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppositories): Irritation of the rectal mucosa, burning, increased peristalsis with colicky pain, frequent defecation, contact dermatitis of the perianal area.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppositories): Patients with body weight up to 60 kg — use ½ suppository. Patients with body weight more than 90 kg — the use of up to 2 suppositories per day is allowed, with monitoring of the body's reaction.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppositories): To prepare 100 grams of the finished form, the following are used: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 15 grams, cocoa butter — 85 grams. The butter is melted in a water bath at a temperature of 36–38 °C, and the extract is gradually introduced with constant stirring. The resulting mass is poured into rectal molds, cooled until completely solidified, removed and packaged in individual containers or foil blisters.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppositories): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 5 to 10 °C, in a place protected from light, in tightly closed packages. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening, use within 10 days.

Nasal Drops — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Nasal Drops): Acute and chronic rhinitis of bacterial nature, atrophic rhinitis, sinusitis with viscous secretion, difficult nasal breathing in allergic inflammation, restoration of the mucosa after antimicrobial therapy.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2 drops in each nostril 2 times a day (morning and evening). Course — 5–7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 3 drops in each nostril 3 times a day for pronounced mucosal inflammation, thick discharge, difficulty breathing, and decreased sense of smell. Use — up to 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): 4 drops in each nostril 4 times a day, no more than 3 days in a row. Used only for pronounced mucosal edema and secretion disorders, with monitoring of the body's reaction.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops once a day in the evening for 7–10 days. Recommended for patients with chronic forms of rhinitis, in conditions of prolonged stay in a polluted or dusty environment, and with a tendency to atrophic changes of the nasal mucosa.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): From 12 years of age with a body weight of 40 kg or more — 1 drop in each nostril 1–2 times a day. Not used under 12 years of age due to irritant action.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): Acute allergic rhinitis, nosebleeds, trauma to the nasal mucosa, postoperative period on nasal structures. Safety data for children under 12 years of age, pregnant and nursing women are absent.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): Burning in the nose, sneezing, increased secretion, reversible decrease in smell when the dose is exceeded. Allergic reactions are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Nasal Drops): For body weight less than 60 kg — use the minimum dosage (1 drop). For body weight more than 90 kg — an increase in dose to 3 drops 2 times a day is allowed.

Preparation method (Nasal Drops): To prepare 100 milliliters of drops, the following are used: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 2.5 grams, distilled water — 96 milliliters, glycerin — 1 milliliter, natural preservative (grapefruit seed extract) — 0.5 milliliters. The extract is dissolved in water at 40 °C, glycerin and preservative are added. The mixture is thoroughly filtered through a sterile filter and poured into sterile dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): Store at a temperature of 5 to 8 °C in the refrigerator, in dark containers, protected from light. Shelf life — 30 days. After opening, use within 7 days.

Ear Drops — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Ear Drops): External otitis of bacterial nature, otomycosis (initial stage), itching and flaking of the ear canal, eczema of the auricle, postoperative irritation after removal of cerumen plugs.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 2 drops in each ear canal 2 times a day (morning and evening). Course — 5 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 3 drops 3 times a day for pronounced inflammation, pain syndrome, and itching. Use for 3–4 days until symptoms stabilize.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): 4 drops 4 times a day, only for a confirmed infectious process accompanied by severe edema and discomfort. Do not use for longer than 3 days.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 1 drop once a day for 5 days after staying in conditions of high humidity (swimming, bathing in open water), as well as for a tendency to external dermatitis. Repeat course — no more than once a month.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): From 12 years of age with a body weight of at least 40 kg — 1 drop 1–2 times a day. Under 12 years of age, not used without a doctor's prescription due to the risk of irritation.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): Perforation of the eardrum, acute purulent otitis, intolerance to components, foreign body in the ear canal. Data on use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age are absent.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): Short-term burning sensation, increased itching, mild flaking of the ear canal skin. When the dose is exceeded — reversible irritation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ear Drops): Patients with body weight less than 60 kg — no more than 1–2 drops 2 times a day. For body weight more than 90 kg, an increase in dosage to 3 drops is allowed.

Preparation method (Ear Drops): To prepare 100 milliliters of drops, the following are used: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 3 grams, cold-pressed olive oil — 97 milliliters. The extract is dissolved in oil in a water bath at a temperature of 45 °C for 1 hour with stirring. The mixture is filtered through a sterile cotton-gauze filter and poured into sterile dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): Store at a temperature of 5 to 10 °C in a tightly closed dark glass container, protected from light and moisture. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 14 days.

Cosmetic Face Mask — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Cosmetic Face Mask): Seborrheic dermatitis, mild to moderate acne, oily skin with enlarged pores, congestive spots after inflammation, facial skin edema.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Face Mask): Apply a thin layer to cleansed skin once every 3 days. Application duration — 10–12 minutes. Course — 7 procedures.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Face Mask): Use once every 2 days for the active phase of inflammation or oily seborrhea. No more than 5 procedures in a row.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Face Mask): Daily application for 5 days for pronounced inflammation, under the supervision of a cosmetologist.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Face Mask): Once a week, in courses of 1 month, for persons with oily skin prone to clogged pores and inflammation.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Face Mask): From 14 years — once a week for acne, application duration — no more than 7 minutes.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Face Mask): Pustular infections, open wounds, individual intolerance, dry and sensitive skin. There are no data on use in pediatric dermatocosmetology under 14 years of age.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Face Mask): Transient redness, mild tingling, feeling of tightness. When the dose is exceeded — flaking, hyperemia.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Face Mask): Not required. Correction is made according to skin type, not body weight.

Preparation method (Cosmetic Face Mask): To prepare 100 grams: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 5 grams, white clay (kaolin) — 80 grams, chamomile hydrolate — 15 milliliters. The components are mixed to a creamy texture. If necessary, add 1 drop of tea tree oil. The mixture is used immediately or stored in an airtight glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Face Mask): Store in a tightly closed glass jar at a temperature of 5–8 °C. Shelf life — up to 30 days. After opening, use within 10 days.

Mouth Rinse — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Mouth Rinse): Gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontosis, gum inflammation, ulcerative lesions of the oral mucosa, chronic halitosis (bad breath), restoration of the mucosa after antiseptic therapy.

Standard Dosage (Mouth Rinse): Rinse the oral cavity with 15–20 milliliters of solution 2 times a day after meals. Duration of course — 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Mouth Rinse): Rinse 3 times a day with 20–30 milliliters for pronounced inflammation, edema, and bleeding gums. Used for up to 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Mouth Rinse): Up to 4 rinses per day with 30 milliliters of solution, no more than 3 days in a row for ulcerative stomatitis and exacerbation of periodontitis.

Preventive Dosage (Mouth Rinse): Rinse once a day at night with 15 milliliters. Recommended for patients with chronic gingivitis, periodontosis, after dental scaling, and in conditions of increased bacterial load. Course — 10 days per month.

Pediatric Dosage (Mouth Rinse): From 10 years — 10 milliliters of solution once a day after meals. Under 10 years — only by doctor's prescription, with monitoring of the swallowing reflex.

Contraindications (Mouth Rinse): Allergy to components, open bleeding ulcers in the oral cavity, pronounced mucosal sensitivity. There are no data on use in pregnant women and children under 10 years of age.

Side Effects (Mouth Rinse): Rarely — burning of the mucosa, metallic taste, short-term numbness of the tongue. With overdose — increased mucosal dryness.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Mouth Rinse): Adjustment by body weight is not required. The guideline is the volume of the oral cavity and age.

Preparation method (Mouth Rinse): To prepare 100 milliliters of solution: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 1 gram, sage hydrolate — 80 milliliters, distilled water — 19 milliliters. The dry extract is dissolved in the liquid mixture at a temperature of 35–40 °C, stirred until completely dissolved. The mixture is filtered and poured into dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Mouth Rinse): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 5 to 8 °C, in an airtight container. Shelf life — 21 days. After opening, use within 7 days.

Compresses and Lotions — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Compresses and Lotions): Contact dermatitis, furunculosis, skin itching, infiltrates, inflammatory foci on the skin, insect bites, allergic reaction without violation of skin integrity.

Standard Dosage (Compresses and Lotions): Lotion: moisten a gauze pad in 10 milliliters of infusion, apply to the affected area for 15–20 minutes. Repeat 2 times a day. Course — up to 5 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Compresses and Lotions): Compress with 20 milliliters of concentrated infusion (2 times higher dosage of extract) for 30 minutes 2–3 times a day. Used for inflamed infiltration, itching, redness, and local edema.

Maximum Dosage (Compresses and Lotions): Wet compress using up to 30 milliliters of warm infusion up to 3 times a day, no more than 3 days in a row. Allowed for boils and acute itching.

Preventive Dosage (Compresses and Lotions): Lotion once a day for 3–5 days during the season of dermatitis exacerbation or with a predisposition to insect bites. Also used after epilation or shaving to prevent irritation.

Pediatric Dosage (Compresses and Lotions): From 7 years — short lotions (no more than 10 minutes) with infusion diluted half with water. Not used under 7 years of age.

Contraindications (Compresses and Lotions): Purulent skin processes with ulceration, open wounds, individual intolerance to components. There are no data on use in infants, pregnant women, and in oncological skin lesions.

Side Effects (Compresses and Lotions): Irritation, increased itching, erythema at the application site. With prolonged use — dryness and flaking.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Compresses and Lotions): Not required. Correction is carried out according to the area and localization of the affected zone.

Preparation method (Compresses and Lotions): To prepare 100 milliliters of infusion: dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 1 gram, distilled water — 99 milliliters. The extract is dissolved at a temperature of 40 °C, infused for 15 minutes under a lid, then cooled to room temperature and used immediately. Not subject to storage in diluted form.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Compresses and Lotions): Store the concentrate (undiluted extract) in the refrigerator at a temperature of 5–8 °C. Shelf life — up to 14 days. The diluted solution is not subject to storage; use immediately after preparation.

Body Scrub — Senna alexandrina

Indications (Body Scrub): Hyperkeratosis, follicular keratosis, dull skin tone, congestive spots after acne, preparation of the skin for cosmetic procedures, elimination of itching and flaking.

Standard Dosage (Body Scrub): Apply the scrub with massaging movements to wet skin once every 5–7 days, leaving on the skin for 2–3 minutes before rinsing. Course — 4–6 procedures.

Enhanced Dosage (Body Scrub): Use once every 3 days for hyperkeratosis, roughening of the skin of the elbows, knees, and heels. Up to 6 procedures in a row are allowed.

Maximum Dosage (Body Scrub): Once every 2 days, short-term, for no more than 1 week. Used on limited areas for local keratinization and rough skin.

Preventive Dosage (Body Scrub): Once every 10 days, in courses of 2 months, for normalization of epidermal renewal, improvement of skin color, and reduction of itching.

Pediatric Dosage (Body Scrub): From 14 years, no more than once every 10 days, applying only to the back, shoulders, or arms. Massage duration — no more than 1 minute.

Contraindications (Body Scrub): Skin microtraumas, dermatitis in the acute phase, open wounds, varicose veins with pronounced sensitivity, individual intolerance. Not used for skin infections.

Side Effects (Body Scrub): Transient redness, feeling of tightness, itching with dry skin type. With excessive friction — irritation and flaking.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Body Scrub): Correction is made according to the area of the skin. For body weight less than 50 kg — use half the dose. Standard amount per zone — 10–15 grams.

Preparation method (Body Scrub): For 100 grams: powder of dry extract of Alexandrian senna — 5 grams, fine sea salt — 60 grams, cold-pressed coconut oil — 35 grams. The oil is melted at a temperature of 38 °C, mixed with the powder and salt until a thick homogeneous mass is obtained. Packaged in airtight containers made of food-grade plastic or dark glass.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Body Scrub): Store at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C, in a dry, light-protected place. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 30 days, avoiding water getting inside the package.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Senna alexandrina

Alexandrian senna has low acute toxicity upon oral use in therapeutic doses. In preclinical animal studies, the LD₅₀ values (lethal dose for 50% of animals) upon oral administration of dry extract were: in mice — more than 5000 mg/kg body weight; in rats — over 3000 mg/kg body weight. These values indicate the classification of Alexandrian senna as a substance with low toxicity (hazard class 4 according to GOST 12.1.007).

With prolonged use of high doses, cases of hypokalemia, electrolyte disturbances, and dehydration have been recorded. Chronic overdose causes irritation of the colonic mucosa, enhances peristalsis, and can provoke spastic pain.

Teratogenic and carcinogenic effects have not been confirmed in controlled studies. The safety of use in pregnant women and children under 12 years of age has not been established.

Sennosides (active compounds of senna) in high doses can impair the absorption of electrolytes and water in the intestine, therefore long-term uncontrolled use is not recommended.

No data on mutagenicity or cytotoxicity are available when used in pharmacologically justified dosages.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacodynamics — Senna alexandrina

Alexandrian senna stimulates colonic motility through active anthracene glycosides (sennosides A and B), which are converted by microorganisms into the aglycone rhein-anthrone in the cecum and colon. These aglycones irritate the submucosal nervous system, increase prostaglandin E₂ synthesis, and increase chloride ion secretion, which contributes to fluid accumulation and stimulation of peristalsis. The laxative effect is complemented by a local anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, due to flavonoids and anthracene compounds, which contributes to the modulation of the immune response of the intestinal mucosa and a reduction in inflammation.

Pharmacokinetics — Senna alexandrina

Sennosides are not absorbed in the stomach and small intestine but are metabolized by the microbiota of the large intestine to the active aglycone rhein-anthrone. It is partially absorbed, conjugated in the liver, and undergoes enterohepatic recirculation. Metabolites are excreted partially with bile and urine (3–6%), while the majority of sennosides and polymeric compounds are excreted with feces (≈90%) ema.europa.eu+1phytojournal.com+1. Local forms (rectal, oil, suppositories) provide predominantly local action, practically without systemic absorption of the actively acting aglycone.

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Senna alexandrina

The active sennosides A and B, after metabolic transformation into rhein-anthrone, activate prostaglandin E₂ synthesis, stimulate COX-2, and enhance chloride ion secretion, which leads to increased peristalsis through excitation of submucosal cholinergic neurons. Anthracene derivatives and flavonoids additionally suppress COX and LOX activities, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress through enhanced antioxidant protection of the mucosa. This combination of stimulating and anti-inflammatory action is confirmed by in vitro data.

Synergy — Senna alexandrina

Sennosides provide an additive laxative effect in combination with other anthracene compounds due to the summed stimulating effect on peristalsis and secretion. Parallel use of prebiotics enhances the conversion of sennosides into the active aglycone, increasing effectiveness. Flavonoid components contribute to the enhancement of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of senna, reducing the irritant effect and providing a balanced effect on the intestinal mucosa.

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Senna alexandrina

Alexandrian senna has an extensive geography of use, covering Northeast Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, India, South and Southeast Asia. The most ancient and reliably recorded information about its use comes from Egypt, where the plant is mentioned in Arabic medical treatises of the 9th–10th centuries, including in the works of al-Razi and Ibn Sina. In Islamic traditional medicine, it was considered a cleansing remedy and was part of complex cleansing and refreshing mixtures. The use of leaf infusion was considered an act of physical and spiritual purification before religious holidays and ablution rituals.

In the medical culture of India, Alexandrian senna was included in the Ayurvedic system under the names "Swarnapatri" and "Sona Mukhi." It was used mainly in the form of powder and decoctions of leaves to eliminate excess "kapha" and "vata" dosha, while it was considered a "hot" plant requiring combination with cooling components (for example, fennel or ginger). In Tibetan medicine, the plant was used less frequently but is mentioned as a component of cleansing mixtures in certain monastic recipes recorded in manuscripts of the 18th–19th centuries.

In the territory of Persia and Yemen, senna leaves were used as a smoking agent in ritual practices associated with cleansing the home and body from "harmful spirits." In some Sufi schools, the plant was considered supportive of mental clarity and symbolically associated with "liberation from internal burden."

In the folk medicine of North and East Africa (especially in Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia), decoctions and infusions of senna were used in everyday hygiene and ritual ablutions of brides before the wedding ceremony. In Bedouin traditions, the leaves of the plant were part of pastes for external use for various skin irritations, often in combination with clay and camel milk. In Tuareg cultures, the plant was used as a repellent against evil spirits — the leaves were hung over the entrance to the dwelling.

In traditional Chinese medicine in the southern provinces (Guangdong, Hainan), senna leaves were used as a cleansing agent, although the related species — Senna obtusifolia — remained the main one in phytotherapy. In Siam (modern Thailand), the plant was used in folk steam baths and wet wraps in preparation for childbirth and in postpartum recovery. In the Lanna tradition, it was considered a plant of the "eliminating" type and was associated with the expulsion of stagnant conditions not only of the body but also of the spirit.

In Slavic folk healing practices, senna is practically not recorded, with the exception of late pharmacy penetration under the name "senna leaf," used in the western provinces of the Russian Empire as part of laxative mixtures. No ritual or magical use on the territory of Eastern Europe has been established. Thus, Alexandrian senna has an ancient and stable tradition of use in medicine, hygiene, and ritual practice of the Muslim world, India, Africa, and part of Southeast Asia, where it was perceived not only as a physically cleansing agent but also as a plant symbol of internal purification and liberation.