Cascara sagrada
Brand Names
Cascara sagradaWhat is Cascara sagrada
Cascara sagrada is a natural laxative that comes from the reddish-brown bark of the Rhamnus purshiana tree native to the Pacific Northwest. It was used by various Native American Indian tribes, who also passed their sacred bark on to Spanish explorers.
Side effects of Cascara sagrada
Common side effect caused by this remedy is stomach upset.
More severe side effects may include:
- Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue);
- diarrhea;
- failure to have a bowel movement;
- loose stools;
- rectal bleeding;
- stomach pain or cramps.
Indication
This remedy is used for relieving occasional constipation (irregularity).
Precautions
Do not use Cascara Sagrada if you:
- are allergic to any ingredient in Cascara Sagrada
- have appendicitis, rectal bleeding, or a history of stomach or intestinal problems (eg, blockage, inflammation, ulcers, Crohn disease, bleeding, severe constipation)
- have had recent abdominal surgery
Dosage forms
In all herbal remedies made from cascara sagrada, the only form of the plant permissible for use during the preparation process is the dried form of the cascara sagrada. Dosage for patients can be two capsules of the dried form of cascara sagrada, which can be taken a maximum of two times every day during the treatment process. The dosage regimen for the cascara sagrada in tincture form is usually 1 to 5 ml every day during the treatment period. Whenever, patients use the cascara sagrada remedy, they must also drink at least eight 6 ounce glasses of water during the day to prevent dehydration as well as to aid the remedy. During any treatment regimen using the cascara sagrada, eight to ten days must be kept as the limit for continuous use - this time period must always be broken by an interval of rest to ensure optimal treatment.
