Senna Leaves on August 7, 1995

Senna Leaves on August 7, 1995

These are the small leaves of the senna tree, a leguminous plant native to foreign countries, hence the name "senna leaves." They are also known as "foreign laxatives" or "cinnamon leaves," resembling oleander leaves with fine hairs, harvested in September. They have a sweet, bitter, and extremely cold nature; taking 3g results in loose stools, while 6g causes violent diarrhea. This medicine is highly effective in treating upper gastrointestinal inflammation, epidemic hemorrhagic fever, and acute pancreatitis, comparable to rhubarb. It can also treat digestive disorders caused by weak spleen and stomach function (constipation, bloating, chest tightness). Use 3g senna leaves, 3g tangerine peel, 15g coptis, and 1.8g cloves, steeped in boiling water for 2 hours, then drink the clear liquid three times daily.