Increase bowel Movement With Cascara Sagrada
June 4, 2009
Cascara sagrada herb has a long history of traditional use by Native Americans. Cascara sagrada contains compounds called anthroquinones, which are responsible for cascara’s powerful laxative effects. Anthraquinones trigger contractions in the colon, called peristalsis, which causes the urge to have a bowel movement. Today, it is one of the most common herbal laxatives on the market.
Rhamnus purshiana (Cascara Buckthorn, Cascara, Bearberry, and in the Chinook Jargon, Chittam or Chitticum; syn. Frangula purshiana, Rhamnus purshianus) is a species of buckthorn native to western North America from southern British Columbia south to central California, and inland to western Montana.
It is the largest species of buckthorn, occasionally growing up to 15 m tall, though more commonly a large shrub or small tree 5 to 10 m tall, with a trunk 20 to 50 cm in diameter. The bark is brownish to silver-grey with light splotching. The leaves are deciduous, alternate, clustered near the ends of twigs; they are oval, 5 15 cm long and 2 to 5 cm broad with a 0.6 to 2 cm petiole, dark shiny green on top, fuzzy and paler green below. The flowers are tiny, 4 to 5 mm diameter, with five greenish yellow petals; the flowering season is brief, disappearing by early summer. The fruit is a berry 6 to 10 mm diameter, bright red at first, quickly maturing deep purple or black, and containing three seeds.
The most notable constituents in cascara sagrada are hydroxyanthraquinone glycosides called cascarosides. Cascarosides exhibit a cathartic effect that induces the large intestine to increase its muscular contraction (peristalsis), causing a bowel movement. Other important constituents include resins, tannins, and lipids which make up the majoriy of the other bark ingredients.
herbal cascara sagrada is an herbal supplement long used by Native Americans for its laxative properties. The supplement is taken from the bark of a species of buckthorn plant, with the botanical name rhamnus purshiana. Cascara sagrada contains anthraquinones, organic compounds known for their laxative effect. Although cascara sagrada is sold over-the-counter, there are important safety risks that you need to know to help you to decide if taking cascara sagrada is right for you.
Safety information on cascara sagrada is a bit sobering. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a ruling in 2002 that banned the inclusion of cascara sagrada in over-the-counter products due to safety concerns. Regular use of cascara sagrada has been linked with an increased risk of colorectal dependency which leads to habitual use of the product.
Look for cascara sagrada in capsule or tablet form at your local or internet health food store. Always purchase a name brand supplement to ensure quality and purity of the herb you are looking to purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. herbal cascara sagrada is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.
