Alexandrian senna

plant

Also known as: Cassia acutifolia

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

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Alexandrian senna (Senna alexandrina) is a plant, specifically a tree or shrub, native to subtropical and tropical regions, particularly Egypt, Sudan, and Nigeria. It belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae) and is known for its medicinal properties, especially its cathartic and laxative effects. The dried leaflets or pods of this plant are used as a purgative. Alexandrian senna is cultivated in India for these medicinal uses.12

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Alexandrian senna (Senna alexandrina), from Egypt, Sudan, and Nigeria, and Cassia sieberana, found from Senegal to Uganda, are cultivated in India for their cathartic properties. Tanner’s senna, or avaram (S. auriculata), a tall shrub, is a principal native tanbark in southern India.
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Alexandrian senna (Senna alexandrina), from Egypt, Sudan, and Nigeria, and Cassia sieberana, found from Senegal to Uganda, are cultivated in India for their cathartic properties. Tanner’s senna, or avaram (S. auriculata), a tall shrub, is a principal native tanbark in southern India.
Read More