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Latin pharmacognostic name: Sennae Folium

Alternate Chinese names: 泻叶 xiè yè

Kingdom: Plant

Origin in PRC Pharmacopoeia: Cassia angustifolia Vahl.; Cassia acutifolia Delile. (PRC Pharmacopoeia)

Origin (other sources): Cassia angustifolia Vahl*; Cassia acutifolia Del.*; Cassia auriculata L.; Cassia obovata Colladon

Use: Medicinal

Category: Draining-precipitant agents / Offensive precipitant agents

Properties: Sweet, bitter; cold.

Channel entry: Large intestine channel.

Indications:

• Precipitates and abducts stagnation, clears heat: Constipation patterns.
• Additional uses: The draining-precipitant effect of fān xiè yè is used to move water and disperse distension in patterns of abdominal water swelling with distension. It may be infused as a single medicinal or may be combined with medicinals that precipitate and move water to strengthen this action. Medicinals to consider include Qiān niú zǐ (牵牛子 Pharbitidis Semen, morning glory [seed]) and Dà fù pí (大腹皮 Arecae Pericarpium, areca husk).

Dosage & Method: As an infusion in warm boiled water, the dose is 1.5–3g. In decoctions, the dose is 5–9g, generally added at the end.

Warnings: Contraindicated in pregnancy, during menstruation, and while breastfeeding. Excessive doses may cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain. Dependence may develop from prolonged use.

Product Area: India.

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