Family: Rhamnaceae; other members include buckthorn
Genus and species: Rhamnus purshiana
Also known as: Cascara, sacred bark, chittem bark
Parts used: Dried, aged bark
Genus and species: Rhamnus purshiana
Also known as: Cascara, sacred bark, chittem bark
Parts used: Dried, aged bark
The 16th century Spanish explorers who first visited northern California had a problem – constipation. The local Indians had the solution – a tea made from a healing herb they held sacred. The herb worked, and the Spanish named it cascara sagrada, “sacred bark”. It has been the answer to millions of prayers ever since.
HEALING with Cascara Sagrada
Modern herbals recommend cascara sagrada for constipation and endorse the Eclectic physicians’ assertion that it “restores bowel tone.”
1. Constipation. Cascara sagrada is an ingredient in dozens of over-the-counter laxatives, among them Comfolax Plus and Nature’s Remedy. In addition, physicians write more than 2.5 million prescriptions a year for products that contain cascara sagrada.
It contains chemical (anthraquinones) that stimulate the intestinal contractions we know as “the urge.” And the Spanish were right in believing the cascara is milder than the other anthraquinone laxatives, which include aloe, buckthorn, rhubarb, and senna. It is less likely to cause nausea, vomiting, and intestinal cramps. But these reactions are possible, if they occur, use less or stop using it.
2. Intriguing Possibility. Harry Hoxsey may have been on the right track. The herb contains aloe-emodin, which has been shown to have anti-leukemia action in laboratory animals, supporting its use a cancer treatment. Unfortunately, aloe-emodin is also quite toxic, and scientists say more research is needed before it can be used to treat leukemia.
Rx for Cascara sagrada
To benefit from the laxative action of cascara, use either a decoction or a tincture.
Modern herbals recommend cascara sagrada for constipation and endorse the Eclectic physicians’ assertion that it “restores bowel tone.”
1. Constipation. Cascara sagrada is an ingredient in dozens of over-the-counter laxatives, among them Comfolax Plus and Nature’s Remedy. In addition, physicians write more than 2.5 million prescriptions a year for products that contain cascara sagrada.
It contains chemical (anthraquinones) that stimulate the intestinal contractions we know as “the urge.” And the Spanish were right in believing the cascara is milder than the other anthraquinone laxatives, which include aloe, buckthorn, rhubarb, and senna. It is less likely to cause nausea, vomiting, and intestinal cramps. But these reactions are possible, if they occur, use less or stop using it.
2. Intriguing Possibility. Harry Hoxsey may have been on the right track. The herb contains aloe-emodin, which has been shown to have anti-leukemia action in laboratory animals, supporting its use a cancer treatment. Unfortunately, aloe-emodin is also quite toxic, and scientists say more research is needed before it can be used to treat leukemia.
Rx for Cascara sagrada
To benefit from the laxative action of cascara, use either a decoction or a tincture.
For a decoction, boil 1 teaspoon of well-dried bark in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes. Drink at room temperature, 1 to 2 cups a day before bed.
The taste is quite bitter. You may find that a tincture is more palatable. In a tincture, take ½ teaspoon at bedtime. When using commercial preparations, follow package directions.
Do not give cascara to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65 years, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.
Do not give cascara to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65 years, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.
SAFETY FACTOR
Anthraquinone laxatives are considered a last resort for constipation. First, eat a diet higher in fiber, drink more fluids, and exercise more. If that doesn’t work, try a bulk-forming laxative, such as psyllium, and if that doesn’t provide relief, try cascara sagrada.
Anthraquinone laxatives are considered a last resort for constipation. First, eat a diet higher in fiber, drink more fluids, and exercise more. If that doesn’t work, try a bulk-forming laxative, such as psyllium, and if that doesn’t provide relief, try cascara sagrada.
It should never be use for more than two weeks. Over time, causes lazy bowel syndrome, an inability to move stool without chemical stimulation. If constipation, persists, consult a physician.
Cascara bark must be stored for at least a year before use. The fresh herb contains chemicals that can cause violent catharsis and severe intestinal cramps. Drying changes these chemicals and gives the herb milder action. Fresh bark may also be artificially dried by baking at 250°F for several hours.
It should not be used by anyone with ulcers, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, or other gastrointestinal conditions.
Pregnant women should not use cascara sagrada.
For otherwise healthy non-pregnant, non-nursing adults who do not have digestive disorders and are not taking other laxatives, cascara sagrada is considered relatively safe when used cautiously in amounts typically recommended.
If cascara sagrada causes minor discomforts such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or intestinal cramps, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience any unpleasant effects or if constipation does not improve in a few days.
Ref: Healing Hebs, by Michael Castleman, 1991.
