Senna or flaxseed? For constipation
Senna and flaxseed work in very different ways. Senna is a stimulant laxative; flaxseed adds bulk to the stool with its fibre and mucilage.
Side by side
| Senna | Flaxseed | |
|---|---|---|
| Latin name | Senna alexandrina | Linum usitatissimum |
| Family | Fabaceae | Linaceae |
| Region | Anatolia and the Mediterranean | Anatolia and the Mediterranean, Andes |
| Part used | Leaves, pods | Seeds, fibre |
| Use | Healing | Food, Healing |
| Scientific evidence | Clinical | Clinical |
| Safety | Caution | Generally safe |
| Legal status in Türkiye | No specific restriction | No specific restriction |
Key differences
- The European Medicines Agency recognises both: senna for short-term treatment of occasional constipation, flaxseed for constipation.
- Senna should not be used for more than a week; long-term use causes a lazy bowel and potassium loss. Using it to lose weight is dangerous.
- Flaxseed can be used long-term but must always be taken with plenty of water; with too little water it can cause a bowel blockage.
Which one, when?
For regular use, flaxseed is the suitable one. Senna only briefly and occasionally.
Details
The full evidence, safety notes, drug interactions and sources are on each plant’s own page: