Cascara sagrada: what it is, what it's for and how to take

Cascara sagrada is a medicinal plant widely used to treat constipation, being considered as a natural laxative. Its scientific name is Rhamnus purshiana D.C and it can be purchased in health food stores and some manipulation pharmacies. 

The extract of the peel is metabolized by intestinal bacteria, causing the production of substances that stimulate bowel movement, facilitating evacuation. The effect caused by this plant are milder than other natural laxatives such as aloe or senna.

However, ideally, before using any type of natural laxative, changes should be made in eating habits, increasing the consumption of foods rich in fiber and ingesting at least 2 L of water a day. See some natural foods to relieve constipation.   

Cascara sagrada: what it is, what it's for and how to take

What is cascara sagrada good for

Cascara sagrada has cathartic, laxative, bitter, appetite stimulant and cholagogue action, so it is mainly used to treat constipation in the short term, because it restores the natural tone of the colon and causes a smooth and regular increase of the peristaltic movements of the intestine.

When ingesting cascara sagrada a substance is released in the large intestine that is then processed by the bacterial flora, producing the release of aglycones that act on the mucosa and produce evacuation.

In small doses it can help stimulate the appetite, in larger doses it acts as a mild laxative and purgative. It also facilitates the expulsion of bile retained in the gallbladder, thereby decreasing the absorption of fats at the intestinal level. 

How to take

Cascara sagrada can be ingested in capsule or powder form and its dosage will depend on the age and personal history of the individual. It is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before use, in case of ingestion you should follow the instructions present in the manufacturer’s leaflet and never exceed the dosage indicated on the product.

This natural plant is usually indicated 1 capsule per day before bedtime with 1 glass of water, however, this dosage could be adapted according to the need. This product should be used for less than 1 week.

Cascara sagrada tea

Also, another way to consume cascara sagrada is in the form of infusion, where the dried cascara is used.  

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon of cascara sagrada;
  • 240 mL of boiling water.

    • How to prepare

    Place the husks in a cup and add 240 mL of boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes, strain and drink 1 to 2 cups at night before bedtime. See other laxative teas to combat constipation.

    When not to ingest

    The bled peel should not be used if pregnancy is suspected or during pregnancy, during breastfeeding because it can pass into the milk and cause diarrhea in the newborn and in children under 12 years of age. It should also not be taken if you are taking digoxin, corticosteroids, arrhythmia drugs, diuretics and cardiotonic glycosides because drug-drug interactions may occur.

    Also, it should not be used when suffering from intestinal disorders such as appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, stomach ulcers, hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, stomach pain, rectal bleeding, vomiting or dehydration. 

    Side effects

    Although cascara sagrada is beneficial for constipation, its use in excessive doses may cause some side effects such as tiredness, cramps, diarrhea, lack of appetite, malabsorption of nutrients, nausea and vomiting, loss of regularity of bowel movements, excessive sweating and dizziness. 

    When ingested over a long period of time it can cause more serious problems such as dehydration, decreased levels of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride in the blood, heart problems and muscle weakness. 

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