A Native to the western regions of North America, Cascara (aka. Cascara Sagrada; Frangula purshiana; syn. Rhamnus purshiana) is a large shrub or small tree from the Buckthorn genus (Rhamnus).
Cascara is a common understory tree in mixed forests in the Rocky Mountains and along the California coast, up through British Columbia. It’s bark peels off in thin layers, and it produces dark purple to black berries.
Cascara is sometimes planted as an ornamental, and its wood may be used for firewood and small implements. The bark has also been used to produce a natural yellow dye.
Cascara has long been used as a laxative by both Native Americans and white settlers, onwards to today due to the primary stimulant laxative constituents present in the plant, the hydroxyanthracene glycosides (esp. cascarosides A, B, C and D), and emodin. Other traditional medicinal uses include supporting liver health and as a general detox aid.
Once approved as an over the counter (OTC) laxative by the US FDA, this designation was reversed in 2001 reportedly due to safety concerns and lack of efficacy data. It is still sold today, however, as a Dietary Supplement.
Cascara Sagrada is classified as a stimulant laxative, causing muscle contractions in the intestines and resulting in a laxative effect. However, it has the reputation of being gentler than other approved OTC laxatives. In either case, as it is a stimulant laxative, it should only be used short-term, as it can cause dehydration and dependence.
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*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
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