Definition

Noun: 1. A type of medicinal plant: Senna refers to any of numerous plants belonging to the genus Senna, characterized by pinnately compound leaves and typically bearing clusters of bright yellow flowers. The dried leaves and pods of several species are widely used to make a laxative tea or medicine.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The pharmacist recommended a tea made from senna for occasional constipation.
  • Many species of senna are cultivated in tropical regions for their medicinal properties.
  • The garden featured a beautiful shrub with yellow flowers, which I learned was a type of senna.

Advanced Usage

• "Senna pods": The seed pods of the senna plant, which are also dried and used medicinally.
  • The herbal preparation included crushed senna pods.
• In botanical and pharmacological contexts, specific species are often named, such as (formerly ), which is a primary source for commercial senna products.

Variants and Related Words

• Cassia: An older botanical name for many plants now classified under the genus . The term "cassia senna" is sometimes still used.
• Laxative herb: A descriptive term for senna's primary function.

Synonyms

• Purgative herb: A more clinical term emphasizing its strong laxative effect.
• Cassia (in historical/alternative contexts): Note: In modern botany, and are distinct, but common usage sometimes overlaps.

Related Phrases

• Senna tea: An infusion made by steeping dried senna leaves or pods in hot water, consumed for its laxative effect.
  • She drank a cup of senna tea before bed.
• Senna leaf: Refers specifically to the dried leaf of the plant used in preparations.
  • The ingredient list included powdered senna leaf.

Noun

1. any of various plants of the genus Senna having pinnately compound leaves and showy usually yellow flowers; many are used medicinally