CASCARA SAGRADA BARK EXTRACT

Cascara Sagrada bark extracts have a laxative effect by stimulating bowel movements.
Cascara Sagrada bark extracts can have astringent properties and may contribute to the overall effects of the bark.
Cascara Sagrada bark extracts are present in smaller amounts and contribute to the extract's overall profile.

CAS Number: 84650-55-5
EINECS Number: 283-515-5

Synonyms: Buckthorn bark, 84650-55-5, CASCARILLA OIL, CASCARA SAGRADA;CASCARA EXTRACT;CASCARA SAGRADA AROMATIC FLUID EXTRACT;CASCARA SAGRADA EXTRACT;CascaraSagradaFluidExtracts;Cascara bark extract;Rhamnus purshiana, ext.;RHAMNUS PURSHIANA BARK EXTRACT

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is a plant native to North America, known for its bark, which is commonly used as an herbal remedy. 
The name "Cascara Sagrada" means "sacred bark" in Spanish, reflecting its traditional use by indigenous peoples.
The primary active compounds in Cascara Sagrada bark extract are anthraquinones, such as cascarosides A and B.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is one of the mildest of the anthraquinone-containing laxatives. 
Phenolphthalein is partially absorbed (about 15% of a given dose) and excreted into the bile; hence, if it is taken constantly, it will accumulate and exert too drastic an action. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract inhibits active sodium and glucose absorption in the bowel.

Once widely available in many over-the-counter products, it was pulled from the market when it was linked to cancer.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is a shrub. 
The dried bark used to be FDA approved as an OTC laxative for constipation.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract's now used in supplements.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract that stimulate the bowel and have a laxative effect.
People use cascara sagrada for constipation, emptying the colon before a colonoscopy, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract used to be approved by the US FDA as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug for constipation, but this approval was taken away in 2002 due to a lack of evidence.
Indigenous peoples in North America have used Cascara Sagrada for centuries. 
It was traditionally used for its laxative properties and as a general health tonic.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract gained popularity in Western medicine in the 19th century as a natural laxative. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract was included in pharmacopoeias and widely used for bowel health.
Some traditional uses include supporting liver function and detoxification. 

However, scientific evidence supporting this use is limited.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract has been used in traditional medicine to support gallbladder health and aid in the digestion of fats. 
This use is based on historical practices rather than robust clinical evidence.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is sometimes included in detox and weight management products due to its laxative effect, which can lead to temporary weight loss from reduced water retention and waste elimination.
Prolonged or excessive use of Cascara Sagrada can lead to dehydration due to its strong laxative effects. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is important to maintain adequate hydration when using the extract.

Extended use of Cascara Sagrada bark extract can disrupt electrolyte balance, leading to potential issues like low potassium levels. 
Monitoring and maintaining electrolyte levels are important if using the extract regularly.
There is a risk of abuse, particularly in people with eating disorders or those seeking quick weight loss. 

Misuse can lead to dependence and chronic bowel problems.
Using Cascara Sagrada bark extract with other laxatives can increase the risk of dehydration and gastrointestinal problems. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is advisable to avoid combining it with other laxative agents.

The quality and purity of Cascara Sagrada supplements can vary. 
Contaminants or adulterants in poorly manufactured products could pose additional health risks. 
In the U.S., Cascara Sagrada bark extract is regulated as a dietary supplement rather than a drug. 

This means it may not be subject to the same rigorous standards for safety and efficacy as pharmaceutical products.
Over time, regular use of Cascara Sagrada bark extract can lead to decreased efficacy as the body may develop tolerance to its laxative effects.
The safety of Cascara Sagrada bark extract in children and elderly individuals is not well established. 

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is advisable to use caution and consult a healthcare provider if considering its use in these populations.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is a popular herbal medication and over-the-counter therapy of constipation. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is generally safe and well tolerated, but can cause adverse events including clinically apparent liver injury when used in high doses for longer than recommended periods.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is classed as a stimulant laxative – it is rich in phytochemicals known as anthraquinones which react with bacteria in the intestines to stimulate the bowels. 
It causes muscle contractions in the intestines which enables stools to move more smoothly through the bowels to trigger the onset of a bowel movement. 
This herb will usually stimulate a bowel movement within six to eight hours of consumption.

Anthraquinones also inhibit reabsorption of electrolytes and water from the colon, producing a softer, quicker bowel movement. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is important to drink lots of water to stay hydrated whilst using Cascara Sagrada. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is only recommended that this herb is used for 1 week at a time, otherwise it can cause side effects such as abdominal cramps and electrolyte imbalances.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract used to be approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug for constipation. 
However, over the years, concerns were raised about cascara's safety and effectiveness. 
The FDA gave manufacturers the chance to submit safety and effectiveness information to answer these concerns. 

But the companies decided the cost of conducting safety and effectiveness studies would likely be more than the profit they could expect from sales of cascara. 
So they didn't comply with the request. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is a shrub native to western North America. 

Its bark is processed for medicinal benefits. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract contains organic plant compounds called anthraquinones which have powerful laxative effects.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract was once available as an over-the-counter herbal laxative, but due to a lack of supportive research and subsequent withdrawal of FDA approval, it can now be found as a dietary supplement, but not as a drug.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is taken orally for laxative purposes, it’s commonly recommended for no longer than a week of use and with caution.
Common side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and dehydration. 
Excessive use can lead to severe gastrointestinal discomfort.

Prolonged use of Cascara Sagrada bark extract can lead to dependence on laxatives for bowel movements, which can disrupt normal bowel function.
The use of Cascara Sagrada during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-studied. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is generally advised to avoid it during these periods due to potential risks.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract may interact with certain medications, including those affecting electrolyte balance and medications that could be impacted by changes in bowel function.
Laxative effects can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly if used excessively.

High doses or long-term use could potentially affect liver function, though evidence is limited.
Ensure that any Cascara Sagrada bark extract supplements are from reputable sources to avoid contaminants or adulterants.

Uses Of Cascara Sagrada bark extract:
Clinical studies of Cascara Sagrada bark extract have focused on its laxative effects, although cascara is no longer considered safe or effective for this use. 
Attention has shifted to Cascara Sagrada bark extract constituent emodin and its possible therapeutic applications in the treatment of various conditions, based on animal and in vitro data.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is most commonly used as a natural laxative to relieve constipation. 
It works by stimulating the bowel and increasing peristalsis (intestinal motility).
Beyond treating constipation, Cascara Sagrada is sometimes used to promote regular bowel movements and support overall digestive health.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is sometimes included in detox and cleanse products aimed at promoting bowel regularity and removing waste from the digestive tract.
In traditional medicine, Cascara Sagrada has been used for various purposes, including as a general tonic and to support liver and gallbladder health.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is often combined with other herbs in formulations designed to support digestive health or detoxification.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is most commonly used as a natural laxative to relieve constipation. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract stimulates bowel movements by promoting peristalsis (the contraction of intestinal muscles), which helps to move stool through the digestive tract.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract supports regular bowel movements and can help maintain digestive health by preventing constipation and promoting overall bowel function.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is sometimes included in detox and cleanse products designed to promote the elimination of waste and toxins from the digestive system. 
It is believed to aid in the removal of accumulated waste from the intestines.
Due to its laxative effects, it can lead to temporary weight loss by reducing water retention and removing waste from the body. 

However, this effect is generally short-term and not a sustainable method for weight management.
In traditional medicine, Cascara Sagrada has been used as a general health tonic and to support liver and gallbladder function. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract was used historically for its believed benefits in overall health maintenance.

Some traditional uses include support for liver health, although scientific evidence supporting this use is limited. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is believed to help with liver detoxification processes.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract has been used to aid in digestion, particularly in relation to the gallbladder’s function, helping with the breakdown of fats and improving overall digestion.

Cascara Sagrada bark extract is often used in combination with other herbs in formulations aimed at promoting digestive health, detoxification, or bowel regularity.
Found in various dietary supplements designed to relieve constipation and promote bowel regularity.

Included in detox and cleansing products that aim to support digestive health and remove waste from the body.
Although less common, Cascara Sagrada bark extract may be included in some skincare products for its potential detoxifying properties.

Safety Profile Of Cascara Sagrada bark extract:
Cascara Sagrada bark extract can cause abdominal cramps or discomfort as a side effect of its stimulant laxative action.
Excessive use or high doses can lead to diarrhea, which can be severe and uncomfortable.
Some individuals may experience nausea as a result of using Cascara Sagrada bark extract.

The laxative effect can lead to dehydration, especially if it causes frequent bowel movements or diarrhea. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract's important to stay hydrated when using the extract.
Prolonged use can disrupt electrolyte balance, potentially leading to conditions such as hypokalemia (low potassium levels). 

This can be problematic, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Regular or prolonged use of Cascara Sagrada can lead to dependence on laxatives for bowel movements, disrupting normal bowel function and potentially causing chronic constipation if discontinued abruptly.
Over time, the body may develop tolerance to the laxative effects, reducing its efficacy.

The safety of Cascara Sagrada bark extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. 
Cascara Sagrada bark extract is generally advised to avoid its use during these periods due to potential risks to both the mother and the baby.
Cascara Sagrada bark extract can interact with various medications, including those that affect electrolyte balance or have gastrointestinal effects.