CASSIA SENNA Meaning and
Definition
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Cassia senna, commonly known as just Senna, is a plant species in the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and is now widely distributed across various countries, including India, Egypt, Brazil, and Sudan. Senna is a small shrub that typically grows up to two meters in height and features pinnate leaves, bright yellow flowers, and cylindrical pods.
Senna has been recognized for its medicinal properties for centuries and is primarily renowned for its potent laxative effects. The dried leaves and fruits of senna contain anthraquinone glycosides, such as sennosides, which act as stimulant laxatives when ingested. These compounds stimulate the bowel muscles, increasing motility and promoting bowel movement, consequently relieving constipation. Senna is commonly used as a key ingredient in various commercial laxative products, including teas, tablets, and powders.
Apart from its laxative properties, Senna has also been traditionally utilized to treat various ailments such as skin disorders, jaundice, and fever. However, it is important to note that Senna should be used with caution and under medical supervision, as prolonged or excessive use may cause gastrointestinal disturbances and electrolyte imbalances.
In botany, Cassia senna is classified under the subfamily Caesalpinioideae and is often confused with another species called Cassia angustifolia, which is also commonly referred to as Senna. However, both species share similar medicinal properties and are often used interchangeably.
Common Misspellings for CASSIA SENNA
- xassia senna
- vassia senna
- fassia senna
- dassia senna
- czssia senna
- csssia senna
- cwssia senna
- cqssia senna
- caasia senna
- cazsia senna
- caxsia senna
- cadsia senna
- caesia senna
- cawsia senna
- casaia senna
- caszia senna
- casxia senna
- casdia senna
- caseia senna
- caswia senna
Etymology of CASSIA SENNA
The word "Cassia senna" is derived from two different sources.
1. "Cassia" is the common name for a group of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, also known as the Legume family. The term "Cassia" originated from the ancient Greek word "kassia", which referred to a kind of cinnamon. It is believed to have been derived from the Hebrew word "qetsi'ah", which also means cinnamon. "Cassia" is used as the common name for several plant species.
2. "Senna" is the common name for a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae as well. The term "Senna" traces its origins to the Arabic word "sana", which refers to a kind of medicinal plant. It is believed that this term was adopted into Latin as "Sena" and eventually evolved into "Senna" in English.
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