Can You Take Rhubarb Root and Senna Leaf Together?

Use extra care with this pair

The short answer

Both Rhubarb Root (Da Huang) and Senna Leaf contain anthraquinone laxatives with hepatotoxic potential at high doses or with prolonged use. Combined use increases total anthraquinone exposure.

How to arrange timing

Avoid combining anthraquinone laxatives. Use only one at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration. Monitor liver function with prolonged use.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Beuers U et al., Gastroenterology 1991; LiverTox (NIH/NLM)

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.