NCIt definition : An extract made from the dried leaflets on the pods of Cassia angustifolia or Cassia
acutifolia with cathartic activity. Dimeric glycosides in dried senna extract are
converted to the active monoanthrones by bacterial action in the colon. Through direct
effects on enterocytes, enteric neurons, and muscle, monoanthrones produce giant migrating
colonic contractions in addition to water and electrolyte secretion. As do other stimulant
laxatives, monoanthrones may induce a limited low-grade inflammation in the colon
through activation of prostaglandin/cyclic AMP and nitric oxide/cyclic GMP pathways
and perhaps inhibition of Na , K -ATPase.;