Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) vs Senna (Cassia senna)

Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri)

Senna (Cassia senna)

About

Bacopa, also known as Water Hyssop or Brahmi, is a creeping succulent perennial that can grow to about 20 inches. It features spatula-shaped fleshy leaves and pale blue or white flowers on slender stalks. It thrives in marshlands and along the edges of mangrove swamps in warmer temperate and tropical climates, especially southern Asia, where it forms dense mats on mudflats.

Senna (Senna alexandrina, syn. Cassia senna) is a small shrub about 3 ft (1 m) tall, with yellow, pea-like flowers and pods containing seeds. Senna contains anthraquinone glycosides called sennosides, and MedlinePlus describes it as a stimulant laxative used on a short-term basis to treat constipation.

Safety & precautions

Not recommended for individuals with hyperthyroidism, as bacopa may influence thyroid function. Ask a pharmacist before combining it with any prescription medicine. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation unless under professional guidance.

Short-Term Use: MedlinePlus advises not using senna for more than a week without talking to a doctor; frequent or continued use can make the bowel dependent on laxatives. Liver: LiverTox lists senna as a possible rare cause of liver injury, mainly at high doses taken for longer than recommended. Children Under 12: Not advisable. Pregnancy: Consult a professional. Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause cramping and discomfort.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.