Fan Xie Ye (Senna Leaf)

About this episode

This episode explores the Chinese herb fan xie ye, its uses, history, and scientific perspectives on its effectiveness for constipation.

In this episode, we are going to be exploring another interesting Chinese herb: fan xie ye, Sennae Folium, or senna leaf. This herb is in the Chinese medical subcategory of purgatives under the category of downward draining herbs. It can be very helpful for constipation. And as usual, we will be exploring something a little different…We are going to look at science again as well as laxatives from both pharmaceutical and Chinese medical perspectives. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us for this fascinating episode as we explore fan xie ye, Sennae Folium, or senna leaf!

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Greg Sperber

Topics covered

• Chinese herbs
• purgatives
• constipation
• herbology
• pharmacology
• laxatives

Keywords

• fan xie ye
• Sennae Folium
• Chinese herbs
• constipation
• purgatives
• herbology
• pharmacology

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Chinese medicine, pharmaceutical

Products: Sennae Folium, laxatives

Books & works: Fan Xie Ye (Senna Leaf)

More episodes of Sperb's Herbs Podcast

• Chái Hú (Bupleurum) · June 2, 2026 · 52 min
• Jia Wei Xiang Su San (Augmented Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder) · May 19, 2026 · 54 min
• Desert Quandong (Santalum acuminatum) · April 21, 2026 · 53 min
• Xin Yi (Magnolia Flower) · April 7, 2026 · 52 min
• Xiao Qing Long Tang (Minor Bluegreen Dragon Decoction) · March 24, 2026 · 1h 2m
• Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum Flower) · March 10, 2026 · 48 min