Scientific evidence supports the use of senna in adults for the treatment of chronic constipation or constipation after childbirth or as a result of the use of drugs (such as narcotics, tricyclic antidepressants, phenothiazines). Similar to senna, cascara contains anthraquinone glycosides (cascarosides A, B, C, D) along with small amounts of other
anthraquinone glycosides. It induces a gentle laxative effect, resulting in minimal side effects. Rhubarb (Chinese rhubarb) is one of the most widely used herbs for constipation around the world. Licorice root has antispasmodic effects in the human colon. Licorice root is often found in laxative products because it enhances the effect of anthraquinone drugs. Licorice is also added to herbal laxative teas as an antispasmodic compound. Clove compounds such as beta-caryophyllene and eugenol have an antispasmodic effect and are used in laxative products to reduce the possible side effects of other laxative compounds.
