Top Eczema Relief Tips

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that results in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with eczema are more likely to have other allergies or asthma. 

 

Eczema Symptoms

If you have eczema, you may experience dry, itchy, red skin. You may also see cracked, scaly skin or blister-like bumps. In severe cases, the skin can become infected.

Eczema is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It is more common in children than adults, but adults can get it, too.

 

Is There a Cure for Eczema?

There is no cure for eczema, but there are treatments that can help to control the symptoms. These include moisturisers, corticosteroid creams or ointments, antihistamines, and light therapy. Local pharmacies carry a wide variety of over the counter eczema cream. In severe cases, oral or injected corticosteroids may be necessary.

Living with eczema can be difficult, as the symptoms can be very uncomfortable and interfere with daily life. However, there are ways to manage the condition and keep the symptoms under control. With proper treatment, people with eczema can live normal, healthy lives.

 

Eczema Relief Tips

If you’re struggling with eczema, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from this uncomfortable skin condition. But the good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to find relief.

 

  1. Keep your skin hydrated. This is one of the most important things you can do for eczema relief. Use a gentle, unscented moisturiser often, and after bathing or showering.

 

  1. Avoid irritants. Certain things can trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups. These include harsh soaps, detergents, and fabrics like wool or synthetic materials. If you know what your triggers are, try to avoid them.

 

  1. Soothe your skin. There are a number of over-the-counter products that can help ease the itchiness and inflammation associated with eczema. Look for ones that contain ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or zinc oxide.

 

  1. Take care of your nails. Scratching can worsen eczema and even lead to infection. Keep your nails trimmed and clean, and wear gloves when you know you’ll be tempted to scratch.

 

  1. Be gentle with your skin. When you’re washing or drying your skin, be sure to use gentle motions. Rubbing or scrubbing can irritate the skin and make symptoms worse.

 

  1. Don’t sweat it. Literally. Sweating can trigger an eczema flare-up, so it’s important to stay cool and dry. Wear loose, breathable clothing, and avoid strenuous activity during hot, humid weather.

 

  1. Get some sun. Believe it or not, a little sun exposure can actually help reduce eczema symptoms. Just be sure to limit your time in the sun, and always use sunscreen to protect your skin.

 

  1. Try a topical corticosteroid. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing enough relief, your doctor may prescribe a topical corticosteroid cream or ointment. These are powerful medications that should only be used as directed.

 

  1. Consider light therapy. In some cases, light therapy (or phototherapy) may be recommended. This involves exposing the skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet light under the supervision of a doctor.

 

  1. Talk to your doctor. If you’re struggling to control your eczema, make an appointment to see your doctor. They can help you find the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Are You Struggling with Your Confidence After a Baby? Read This

Being pregnant is such a magical time in your life, but it is also a season filled with changes in your body. A study suggests that it takes more than three years for a woman to regain her self-esteem after the birth of a baby. But will you wait long before you can get your Mum mojo back? Here are some easy tricks to help you get started:

 

Invest in your appearance

Your body goes through many changes when you get pregnant and after giving birth, which could have a massive impact on your confidence. But while you’re still adjusting to your new role as a mother, you should never forget to make time for your appearance. You can buy a stretch mark oil if you’re conscious about your postpartum belly, get a manicure every two weeks, or spend time at the spa.

 

Find a good circle of friends

Being a Mum doesn’t mean you can’t spend time with your friends anymore. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet new ones and be with a community of new Mums who you can ask for advice and share your thoughts. Socializing doesn’t mean sacrificing time for your baby. It’s simply giving time for yourself, so you can also be a better mother when you get home. 

There are mummy forums online that offer many insights for new mums or mums-to-be. Check out social medial channels and follow those that you think you can benefit from. Check out nearby communities that meet regularly for the best advice in taking care of yourself and the baby.

 

Do something that you love

You probably spend time feeding the baby, changing nappies, and running errands. If you want your confidence back, you should never forget to make time for the things you love. For instance, if you love cooking, you should spend time trying out different recipes for the family. If you love crafts, you could probably make a scrapbook while the baby sleeps. It’s all about finding time for something you’re passionate about, so you can feel good about yourself and what you have accomplished.

If you are new to this area, look for different hobbies for stay-at-home mums, and find something that interests you.

 

Get up and moving

Being a busy Mum, it’s easy to skip the exercise and eat whatever you want. But getting your body back after having a baby takes a lot of hard work and commitment—but it is possible. Always include exercise in your daily routine. If you can’t afford to go to the gym because no one will watch the baby, practice simple exercises at home or invest in a treadmill or stationary bike to help you get started with your fitness journey.

Being a mother makes you a stronger woman, so you should never be intimidated by the changes in your body. You should learn to embrace your new physique and be proud that you gave birth to a human being. Follow these simple tips to get your confidence back, and always remember to love yourself more. In time, you’ll reclaim your Mum mojo and get back on track with the things you love.

 

How to Maintain Thyroid Health

Your thyroid is a small gland located at the front of your neck, near the Adam’s apple that helps the body to regulate its vital processes. When a problem arises with your thyroid and it becomes either overactive or underactive, it can have dire effects on your overall health. Things like your breathing, metabolism, cellular processes, and more are all dictated by your thyroid. These are our best tips to help keep your thyroid healthy and functioning at its optimal level.

 

Get Plenty of Iodine

Your thyroid loves iodine! Your thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, are named as such due to the number of iodine molecules they contain. Without consuming enough iodine, your body won’t be able to produce enough of these vital hormones. Eating iodine-rich foods is one way to keep your thyroid functioning properly. Examples of iodine-rich foods include seafood, seaweed, and fortified dairy products. 

 

Snack on Some Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts in particular are very rich in selenium, which plays an important role in the metabolization of T4 to T3. Selenium is also a known antioxidant, which helps to protect your body from free radicals and oxidative stress. Other foods that are rich in selenium include broccoli, garlic, onion, seafood, and alfalfa.

 

Stay Away from Gluten

The evidence is piling up that many autoimmune thyroid issues are caused by a gluten intolerance. If you suffer from an ailment such as Grave’s Disease or Hashimotos, it’s extremely important that you give up gluten entirely. 

The protein in gluten is similar (molecularly) to that of your thyroid. When you ingest gluten and it absorbs into the bloodstream, your immune system attacks it. Well, for people with Grave’s or Hashimotos, your body mistakenly identifies the thyroid as this ‘bad’ protein and attacks it as well.

 

Make Sure You Are Cooking Your Brassicas

Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, all need to be cooked for optimum health. When you leave these vegetables in their raw state, they can negatively impact the thyroid gland. These vegetables are known as goitrogens. They are able to hinder the function of the thyroid gland by blocking the absorption of iodine when left uncooked. Lightly cooking is sufficient, just be sure they are not raw!

 

Load Up On Antioxidants

Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and all sorts of colored veggies. Your thyroid is particularly sensitive to the negative effects of oxidation. Ingesting plenty of antioxidant-rich foods allows your body to protect itself against free radicals and other oxidative stress. Antioxidants and B Vitamins can be ingested easily – simply aim to eat fruits and veggies of every colour.

If you suspect you have a thyroid disorder, talk to your healthcare provider immediately. If you have an overactive thyroid, you may be prescribed medication containing thionamides. If you have an underactive thyroid, you may be prescribed medication containing levothyroxine. Both thionamide medication and levothyroxine in NZ is available at your local pharmacy. Take as directed by your healthcare provider.

 

Is It Time To Hire a Financial Planner?

Are you considering hiring a financial advisor? It’s no surprise, considering how challenging it can be to manage one’s own finances. When you’re a successful and busy person, there are probably more productive things you can spend your time doing as opposed to dealing with saving, investing, and overall financial management. A financial planner in Chatswood can help you get organised, stay organised, and handle all of your financial planning and investment management strategies.

Having some sort of financial plan allows for easier financial decision making and continued goal-meeting. It allows you to have some semblance of peace of mind in regards to your financial future.

Are you ready for a financial planner? These are the top indicators that you may need one in order to organise your finances and set yourself up for continued support in the future.

 

  1. You earn significant money in the top income tax bracket

Typically, people who earn more money are able to use savings strategies to their advantage that generally results in a lower amount of taxes during (or even before) retirement. However, without a knowledgeable financial planner, there’s a high likelihood that they will continue to pay more taxes than they should.

 

  1. You and your spouse are on different pages

If financial tension is making its presence in your home, chances are you need a financial planner. A financial planner can act almost as a couples counsellor in charge of finances. A third party who is unbiased can do a world of wonders in helping the two of you see eye to eye.

 

  1. Retirement makes you uneasy

If you’re not entirely sure whether or not you are on the right path for a comfortable retirement, a financial planner can be the key to helping you determine the next moves. Such a long-term goal requires long-term planning, and a lot of preparation to boot. With a financial advisor, you can set an achievable target goal and work from there.

 

  1. You’re unsure as to why you owe back taxes

Have you received that dreaded letter in the mail declaring that you owe a not-so-insignificant amount of back taxes and you’re unsure as to why? A financial planner can help you rectify this situation, as well as work with you to meet your deadline and figure out the reason.

 

  1. You have analysis paralysis

Yes, it’s a real thing. For the most part, it refers to the knowledge that you need to do something but keep putting it off, for one reason or another. It’s a common problem that happens when time comes to take action – make an investment decision, reconfigure your student loans, or set up something like life insurance. Generally speaking, the inaction leads to either paying more than you need to, or not earning as much as you could, depending on the situation.

 

  1. You don’t have the drive to do it yourself

If the mere thought of financial planning triggers a yawn or a sigh, chances are you are not the type of person who enjoys this stuff. Or maybe you do find some interest in it, but simply don’t have the time. The fact of the matter is that financial planning is a necessary (albeit sometimes tedious) thing that we all must do. Hiring a financial planner or advisor will do wonders for your peace of mind, your financial freedom, and your future.

Moving to Buderim, a Hidden Gem on the Sunshine Coast

Buderim is an up-and-coming real estate hotspot on the Sunshine Coast. Often overlooked in lieu of popular coastal towns nearby, Buderim is perched on a volcanic plateau of fertile, red soil overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

 

Things To Do In Buderim

 

The quaint town is just a few minutes away from world-class beaches, however, such as Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, and Maroochydore. 

Its centre streets are beautifully-lined with leafy trees, coffee shops, and delicious restaurants. Grab a bite to eat at Buderim Tavern or Harry’s on Buderim. 

Littered with waterfalls and hiking trails, this lush and verdant landscape is a veritable haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit the many natural havens of Buderim, including Buderim Forest Park, Edna Walling Memorial Garden, Buderim Rainforest, Headland Golf Club, and Eric Joseph Foote War Memorial Sanctuary. 

Buderim Craft Cottage is a great family-friendly activity with things to do for children of all ages.

 

Buderim’s Real Estate Outlook

Based on what Buderim has to offer its potential residents, the experts agree – it is severely undervalued. 

Given its up-and-coming trend, coupled with the surge in nearby beach prices, investors would be wise to find land for sale in Buderim for development purposes. The same way the neighbouring beach real estate prices skyrocketed, it’s inevitable that, in time, the same will happen in Buderim.

Buderim could be likened to some of Brisbane’s most coveted suburbs such as Hamilton or Ascot. You’ll find large land allotments with a wide variety of options for housing, from classic to contemporary. 

 

Why Move To Buderim?

While many people love to live by the seaside below, Buderim offers something that coastal living cannot – more space! The plots that are sold by the coast are significantly smaller than those sold in Buderim. So, depending on your family size and personal needs, you may find that Buderim is a better option for your next real estate endeavour.

Buderim has all of the conveniences of a standard town or small city, including retail centres and supermarkets, schools and pharmacies.

As with other prime real estate locations in the area, Buderim is very safe. 

And finally, the people of Buderim are truly kindhearted and welcoming. They will feel like your neighbours you’ve grown up with in no time at all.

 

On Top Of The World In Buderim

With views that go on for days and a unique, village-like atmosphere, Buderim is an excellent choice for new and old families alike. Particularly well-suited for growing families with young children, the extra yard space in comparison to the coastal plots of land will provide you with lasting memories for years to come.

Buderim is an ideal choice to live for many reasons. You reap the benefits of coastal living while escaping the beating, summer sun. You can experience life in a small-town, village-like community while still being near many amenities given the central location on the Sunshine Coast. 

Overall, with its strategic location nestled between the ocean and the hinterland, Buderim is high on our watch-list of places to move.

 

What To Consider When Buying House & Land Packages

Are you purchasing your first home or investment property? You may very well be beginning to experience a sense of overwhelm with the multitude of options available. One popular option is to purchase a comprehensive house and land package. As this is an attractive option for many, here are some considerations to take into account when looking for house and land packages in Victoria.

 

What Are House And Land Packages?

A house and land package is a property purchase in which the buyer purchases land and plans to construct a home. This is done with one process but with two contracts. These are slightly different from regular property purchases. When you buy a house and land package, you deal with two contracts (one for the land, one for the house), whereas with a traditional property purchase, the two are valued together and you get only one contract. 

The land contract is a set value which you will be required to pay via your mortgage or whatever financial terms you’ve arranged. The construction of the home is typically done in phases and paid for accordingly.

 

Considerations When Buying House and Land Packages

One of the most important considerations before choosing a house and land package is the area’s infrastructure. The area may be considered up-and-coming, so there may be factors to consider such as public transportation that are not fully developed yet. 

Break down the prices to ensure they are actually representative of the property value. Sometimes, these can be inflated by marketing commissions and costs. Find packages where you are not overpaying.

If your purpose is investment, take into consideration that you can’t have tenants during the construction phase. So financing your mortgage may require a bit of creativity until you are able to let to tenants, particularly if construction takes longer than anticipated.

 

House and Land Packages: Pros

Cost-Effective

Purchasing a package deal may be cheaper than purchasing an existing home. There are little-to-no fees or initial payments when building your own.

You can typically settle much sooner with a package deal since the traditional method often employs high interest rates. 

Convenience

Going with a house and land package typically simplifies the process of getting a home. You have to deal with the developer only instead of a multitude of different people involved in acquisition and construction. 

Financing

Financing is often simpler with house and land packages. You know exactly how much you need to finance before you go to the bank.

 

House and Land Packages: Cons

Pre-Designed Homes May Not Be For Everyone

While this can be considered a pro as well, not everyone will love to choose a home from a catalogue of options. Still, you can always adjust the design and add or remove any amenities that make the home unique for your family.

Location

If you were hoping to be in the city centre, a house and land package may not be for you. These deals are often situated in the suburbs where the commute to work increases and public transportation may not be an option.

Less Land

As these are generally part of a larger development, house and land packages are usually compact, meaning you’ll have less yard space. That’s not always the case, however, so be sure to do your research beforehand. 

 

In Summary

House and land packages are a great way to purchase property. It’s feasible, straightforward, and economical. It’s particularly well-suited to first-time homeowners. However, if unique home design and amenities are a priority for you, along with a large yard, you may consider purchasing an existing home or creating your own.

 

All You Need To Know About Iron Tablets

Have you been extremely tired lately? Maybe you can hardly make it up a flight of stairs without losing your breath, even though your fitness level is good? You might be iron deficient, particularly if you’re a woman. 

Low iron levels are among the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide. Why is iron so important and what happens when your body isn’t getting enough?

 

Why Do We Need Iron?

Iron is an essential nutrient that aids in the transport of oxygen throughout our bodies. It is an essential component of haemoglobin, which is what transports oxygen from our lungs to the rest of our bodies in red blood cells. 

As you can imagine, an iron deficiency means the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells. When we don’t have enough red blood cells, it creates a condition known as iron-deficiency anaemia. Without the right amount of red blood cells, the body isn’t getting enough oxygen, which can create fatigue or exhaustion. 

This fatigue and exhaustion can affect everything, including the body’s ability to fight off infections through a healthy immune system. 

Iron is also important in the production and maintenance of healthy skin, nail, and hair cells. 

 

How Much Iron Do We Need?

Iron requirements vary depending on factors such as gender, age, and overall health.

Babies need more iron than adults do since their bodies are growing fast. During childhood, boys and girls need the same amount of iron – between 10-8mg daily between ages 4-13. 

Beginning at puberty, females need more iron than males due to the monthly blood loss with menstruation. Women from ages 19-50 require 18mg of iron daily, while men only need 8mg. 

Post-menopause, women need only 8mg of iron daily.

Other factors also influence daily iron needs. Some instances where you may need more iron include:

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Kidney failure or dialysis
  • Ulcers
  • Celiac disease or Crohn’s disease
  • Use of antacids
  • Bariatric surgery
  • Intense exercise
  • Vegetarian or vegan

 

Signs You Might Have An Iron Deficiency

  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Strange cravings such as clay or dirt
  • Brittle nails and hair
  • Sores near the corners of the mouth
  • Sore tongue
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Tired or exhausted

 

Do You Need to Take an Iron Supplement?

Iron is contained in many of the foods we eat on a daily basis. Red meat, beans, dried fruit, spinach, and fortified cereals all contain iron. Still, this may not be sufficient depending on your iron needs. An iron supplement might be the right option for you after discussing it with your doctor. 

 

Side Effects of Iron Supplements

Unfortunately, ferrous iron supplements cause a lot of unpleasant side effects. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation are all common. Pregnant women are particularly prone to the side effects of iron supplements. 

 

For people who can’t tolerate the side effects of ferrous iron supplements, Maltofer iron tablets in Australia are a good alternative. 

Always consult with your doctor when adding iron supplements to your diet. Your doctor should monitor your iron levels with blood tests while taking the supplements to see if there is an improvement.

 

How to Carpet Your Garage in New Zealand

Carpeting your garage in New Zealand can be a great way to add a touch of style and function to your space. Whether you are looking to carpet your entire garage floor or just want to carpet the area around your car, there are many different options available that can help you achieve the look and feel you desire.

It’s important to think about the purpose of your garage, before embarking on this project. Will you be using the entire garage, or will the space mainly be for storage? Will it be used simply to park your car, or will a home gym be on the cards later down the track? These are some of the key considerations you can make at this stage.

 

Getting Started

To get started, consider your budget and the type of carpeting material that will best suit your needs. Options include carpet tiles, rolled carpet, woven carpet mats, and rubberized carpeting. Additionally, think about whether you would like to have an underlayment beneath the carpeting for added comfort and insulation.

 

Selecting a Colour

Once you have settled on a type of carpeting material and underlayment, it is time to select a colour or pattern. If you are carpeting your entire garage floor, you may want to choose a carpet that is darker in colour to hide any dirt or stains that may occur over time. However, if you are only carpeting the area around your car, you may want to opt for a lighter colored carpet so it does not show dirt as easily.

 

How to Install Carpet in Your Garage

When installing carpet in your garage, be sure to measure the space correctly and allow for extra carpeting material in case of errors. It is also important to ensure that the carpet is properly secured so it does not move or shift over time. Use heavy duty tape or tacks around the perimeter of the carpeted area to keep it in place.

 

When to Call in the Professionals

When it comes to carpeting your garage, there are a few key reasons why it is better to pay for professional installation services. For one thing, having professional carpet installers on hand ensures that you get high-quality carpet that looks and performs beautifully for years to come. Additionally, professional carpet installers have the knowledge and expertise necessary to ensure that your carpet is installed properly and securely, with no risk of fraying or coming loose. And perhaps most importantly, hiring a professional will save you time and hassle when compared to trying to do the job yourself. So why not let the experts take care of this important task for you? With their help, you can rest assured that your garage carpet will look great for years to come.

With a little time and effort, the installation of carpet for garages in NZ can be a quick and easy way to improve the look and feel of your space. Choose carpeting that fits your budget and needs, and be sure to follow the proper installation techniques to ensure it lasts for many years to come.

Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment of Hypothyroidism

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which your thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) to be released into your bloodstream. It is a relatively common condition that is sometimes referred to as underactive thyroid disease. When left untreated, hypothyroidism could become life-threatening.

 

What does the Thyroid do?

Your thyroid is a small gland located near the voice box in your throat. The thyroid is responsible for releasing thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones, which collectively make up the thyroid hormone. These hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism. When too little or too much thyroid hormone is produced, the entire body is affected. 

As metabolism dictates to your body how much energy to use, the most common effects of irregular amounts of thyroid hormone include body temperature, heart rate, and weight. 

Your pituitary gland controls the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to produce based on the activity of the thyroid, which is why problems with the pituitary gland could also lead to hypothyroidism. 

 

What are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?

Depending on the severity of the condition, symptoms of hypothyroidism may go unnoticed. Once the condition begins to worsen, however, common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, weight gain, constipation, muscle weakness or soreness, elevated cholesterol, depression, intolerance of cold temperatures, dry skin and hair, low libido, puffy face and eyes, hoarse voice, and brain fog or forgetfulness. 

When the levels of your thyroid hormones are excessively low, you can develop a life-threatening condition known as myxedema. Symptoms of myxedema include anaemia, confusion, low body temperature, coma, or heart failure. 

 

What Causes Hypothyroidism?

The number one leading cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s Disease, an autoimmune disorder. Occasionally the immune system attacks an infection and indirectly attacks and damages the thyroid gland. 

Other conditions that may cause hypothyroidism include thyroid gland surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, insufficient dietary iodine, congenital hypothyroidism, problems with the pituitary gland, and some medications used to treat other conditions.

Medications that are known to have an adverse effect on proper thyroid function include lithium, amiodarone, and interferons.

 

How is Hypothyroidism Treated?

In general, hypothyroidism is easily managed and treated. The most common and effective treatment of underactive thyroid disease is with hormone replacement tablets containing levothyroxine. This is a daily hormone replacement therapy that is, in general, very effective. 

Eltroxin is a common medication used to treat hypothyroidism. Eltroxin in New Zealand is available by prescription at your local pharmacy. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine whether hormone replacement therapy with Eltroxin is right for you. 

 

Risks of Untreated Hypothyroidism

When left untreated, hypothyroidism may become serious or life-threatening. An increase in the number and severity of symptoms may arise without proper treatment. More severe symptoms include trouble breathing, inability to regulate body temperature, mental health issues, development of a heart condition, or development of a goitre (enlarged thyroid gland).

As mentioned above, untreated hypothyroidism may also lead to a life-threatening condition known as myxedema.

 

Senna Uses & Risks

Senna is an herb that is widely used to relieve constipation and empty the bowel before a number of medical procedures. The fruit and the leaf are both used, and marketed in either pill or tea form. 

It is often touted as a weight-loss aid and included in many teas, though this claim lacks significant research. 

If you’re seeking immediate constipation relief in Australia, your local pharmacy is sure to carry over-the-counter senna pills or tea.

 

What is Senna?

Senna is an herb that is derived from over 200 species of Cassia plants. Flowers, fruits, and leaves of the senna plant all have applicable uses as a stimulant or laxative going back hundreds of years. 

The most common species of the Cassia plants that are used as laxatives or for constipation relief are the C. acutifolia and C. angustifolia plants. These come from India and the Middle East. Senna is also cultivated in the Americas and Africa, though in lesser quantities.

 

How Does Senna Work?

Senna glycosides (sennosides) are the main active compounds that are found in the senna plant. These are not able to be absorbed during digestion. Instead, your gut bacteria break them down, which causes a slight irritation in the colon cells. This, in turn, stimulates the movement of your intestines to produce a laxative effect.

 

Senna Uses

Senna is primarily used as a laxative and for constipation relief. Thanks to its stimulative laxative effect, some medical professionals recommend senna pills or senna tea during preparation for a colonoscopy. It usually takes between 6-12 hours for senna to cause a bowel movement.

Some individuals may use senna pills or tea to ease the pain associated with haemorrhoids as well. However, the use of senna for relief of haemorrhoid symptoms does not have sufficient research to provide a definitive answer as to its efficacy. 

Over the past two decades or so, senna has been increasingly touted as a metabolism booster and weight loss aid. There are teas on the market that contain senna which are often called ‘skinny teas’. However, there is minimal research and no scientific evidence that supports the use of senna for weight loss.

 

Is Senna Safe?

Mild side effects of senna include stomach cramps, discomfort, and diarrhoea. 

While senna is safe when used as directed, there can be risks and complications associated with misuse. Senna is safe for short-term use (less than one week) and in small doses (below 34mg of sennosides twice per day).

Exceeding these recommendations may cause normal bowel functioning to slow or stop completely, resulting in laxative dependence. Long-term use of senna may also lead to liver damage. 

It is crucial to ingest enough water and electrolytes (including Gatorade and Pedialyte) while using senna as a laxative or for constipation relief. This prevents excessive fluid loss, particularly if you have diarrhoea. 

Senna can also interact with certain medications. Contact your healthcare provider to be sure.

 

How to Take Senna

Senna can be ingested either as a tea or, more commonly, as an ingredient in a supplement used for constipation relief or laxative. The fruit is generally more gentle than the leaves, so the supplements using fruit may be a better option.

 

Takeaway

Senna is an effective option as an active ingredient in supplements for laxatives and constipation relief. Be sure to use senna supplements and teas as directed, and drink plenty of fluids.