Laxatives Naturally Occurring in Plants Such as Aloe or Senna May Increase Cancer Risk

Safety of hydroxyanthracene derivatives for use in food – EFSA Journal (free)

Press release: EFSA confirms health concerns for hydroxyanthracene derivatives in food – European Food Safety Agency (free)

Commentary: Europe’s safety watchdog says laxatives may increase cancer risk – Reuters (free)

“This group of substances naturally occurs in plants such as aloe or senna species. Extracts containing them are used in food supplements for their laxative effect”. (from Press Release)