Herbal Medicines for Constipation and Phytochemical Comparison of Active Components

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Ethnobotany
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Constipation is a prevalent global health issue impacting quality of life.
• Herbal remedies like rhubarb, senna leaf, and aloe are commonly used for bowel regularity.
• Rhubarb is a component of MaZiRenWan, a traditional Chinese medicine for constipation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare the purgative actions of chemical constituents from rhubarb, senna, and aloe.
• To highlight the efficacy of anthraquinones, especially dianthrones, in relieving functional constipation.
• To present safety, side effects, and benefits of anthraquinone compounds.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and summarization of major chemical components.
• Comparative analysis of the purgative actions of identified constituents.
• Compilation of data on safety, side effects, and benefits of anthraquinones.

Main Results:

• Key chemical components identified include dianthrones, anthraquinone glycosides, free anthraquinones, and polyphenols.
• Anthraquinones, particularly dianthrone compounds (e.g., sennoside A and B), demonstrate significant stimulant laxative effects.
• These compounds effectively promote gastrointestinal motility and alleviate functional constipation.

Conclusions:

• Anthraquinone compounds, especially dianthrones from rhubarb, senna, and aloe, are effective natural stimulant laxatives.
• Further research is essential to fully understand the potential and applications of these natural anti-constipation agents.
• While natural products are used, their scientific investigation remains limited, necessitating more studies.