An Overview of Phytochemical Constituents of Senna didymobotrya Fresen Irwin Roots Used as a Traditional Medicinal Plant in Kenya

Medicinal plants and herbal preparations are gaining renowned interest in scientific communities
nowadays due to their reliable pharmacological actions and affordability to common people which
make them effective in control of various diseases. Medicinal plants play an important role in the
treatment of various illnesses in Kenya and the whole world. Senna didymobotya is one of such plants
used traditionally in Kenya to treat illnesses such as diarrhea, malaria, ringworm, jaundice and
intestinal worm. The main aim of this study was to analyze the phytochemical composition of the plant
roots of Senna didymobotya. Chemical tests for the screening and identification of bioactive chemical
constituents in the medicinal plant was carried out in crude root extracts using standard procedures.
From the analysis, it was demonstrated that steroids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, tannins, saponins,
glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids and phenols were found in the roots of the plant. The significance of
the phytochemical constituents with respect to the role of Senna didymobotya plant roots in traditional
medicine was discussed.