Gastrointestinal (GIT) System Herbal Remedies

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering active ingredients, mechanisms of action, and clinical indications for GIT-related herbal medications.

Senna (Senna alexandrina)

A stimulant laxative containing sennosides (A and B) indicated for the short-term treatment of acute constipation.

Sennosides

Anthraquinone glycosides that are prodrugs metabolized by colonic bacteria into active rhein anthrones.

Senna Mechanism of Action

Stimulates the colonic myenteric plexus, increasing intestinal motility and fluid secretion via inhibition of $\text{Na}^{+}/\text{K}^{+}-$ATPase.

Cathartic colon

A loss of normal colonic tone that can result from the prolonged use ($>1\text{-}2$ weeks) of Senna.

Psyllium Husk (Plantago ovata)

A bulk-forming laxative containing soluble fiber (mucilage) used for chronic constipation, IBS, and as an adjunct for lowering cholesterol.

Psyllium Mechanism of Action

The mucilage absorbs water to form a viscous gel that increases stool bulk, softens stool, and stimulates normal peristalsis.

Psyllium Administration Rule

Must be taken with plenty of water; other drugs should be administered at least $2$ hours before or $4\text{-}6$ hours after to avoid impaired absorption.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

A carminative plant used for relief of dyspepsia, bloating, and mild spasmodic gastrointestinal complaints, containing volatile oils like anethole.

Anethole

An active ingredient in fennel that relaxes gastrointestinal smooth muscle and may possess mild estrogenic activity.

Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita)

An antispasmodic treatment containing $35\text{-}55\%$ menthol, used for symptomatic treatment of IBS including pain, bloating, and flatulence.

Menthol Mechanism of Action

Acts as a calcium channel antagonist, relaxing gastrointestinal smooth muscle, specifically the colon.

Peppermint Oil Dosage Requirement

Must be taken in enteric-coated capsules to prevent esophageal reflux and heartburn, typically $0.2\text{-}0.4\text{ mL}$ TID.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

A carminative, antispasmodic, and insulin mimetic herb containing cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid.

Coumarin

A component of cinnamon (notably C. cassia) that can be hepatotoxic in high, chronic doses.

Aloe Vera Latex

The layer under the leaf skin containing anthraquinone glycosides (aloin, barbaloin, emodin) used specifically as a stimulant laxative.

Aloe Vera Gel vs. Latex

The latex is a stimulant laxative derived from the leaf skin layer, while the topical gel is mucilaginous inner leaf pulp used for skin conditions.