This crude drug is obtained from the leaves and pods of Cassia angustifolia (Family caesalpiniaceous) often referred to as 'Indian Senna' and C.acutifolia designated as Alexandrian Senna. While Indian Senna is cultivated in the Southern parts of India, Alexandrian Senna is obtained from wild growth in Sudan. The plant grows well in warm arid region.

The plant is found growing in a wild state, cultivated in the state of  Tamilnadu, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi and certain coastal parts of Gujarat especially in the Bhuj region of India. Tinney valley in Tamilnadu is famous for Senna cultivation. Senna is cultivated by seed in the month of September-October in Tamil Nadu and in the month of June-July in  Western India.