What is it
The Cascara, or Cascara sagrada (scientific name: Rhamnus purshiana) is a shrub that grows wild in rather humid and sunny areas.
The bark is used, which is harvested in the dry season and which must be left to mature at least one year before use so that some of its negative properties (intestinal cramps, diarrhea with bleeding and vomiting) are attenuated.
Activities
The bark contains compounds, called anthraquinones, responsible for the laxative effects. Anthraquinones, in fact, stimulate the contraction of the colon muscles, thus increasing intestinal peristalsis and favoring evacuation.
It also increases the secretion of water and salts by the intestine itself, with the result of making the stool softer and increasing its volume, all for the benefit of easier evacuation. The laxative effect is manifested after 6-12 hours.
Why is it used
Cascara is particularly indicated to treat occasional constipation (constipation), but should be used sporadically, only a couple of times a week and, possibly, for no more than two weeks.
How to use it
The average daily dose is 2-3 mg of nebulized dry extract and titrated in anthraglucosides at least 7% per kilo of body weight, to be taken preferably in a single administration in the evening.
The same amount can also be divided into two doses to be taken after meals.
Effects
In case of individual hypersensitivity or if the recommended doses are exceeded, cascara can cause severe abdominal pain and diarrhea and, as a consequence of the latter, the loss of important mineral salts such as potassium, accompanied by the appearance of other disorders related to its deficiency.
The abuse of cascara, moreover, as in the case of all preparations that contain anthraquinones (and, in general, for all laxatives) can lead to addiction. The intestine no longer functions properly and peristalsis is greatly reduced (lazy bowel).
Precautions
The cascara should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, nor in children. It is also contraindicated if you suffer from gastrointestinal disorders other than occasional constipation (e.g. colitis, irritable bowel, intestinal obstruction) or liver, kidney or heart disease.
Interactions
Cascara may interact with heart medications, such as quinidine antiarrhythmics, digitalis, beta-blockers and fenoxedil; diuretics, such as furosemide; vincamine, some analgesics, antibiotics of the macrolide family and licorice.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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