Cascara
Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana DC.), also known as cascara sagrada, is bark from a tree native to North America that has traditionally been used to support digestive health. It's valued as a plant-based ingredient that helps encourage healthy bowel activity.
What are the benefits of cascara?
-
Traditionally used to stimulate intestinal peristalsis
-
May help relieve constipation
-
Helps support regular bowel movements
-
May help when digestion feels sluggish
-
Most often used for short-term relief of constipation
When might cascara help?
Cascara may be worth considering when bowel activity slows down and you notice:
-
Constipation
-
Infrequent or irregular bowel movements
-
Bloating or a feeling of heaviness
-
Discomfort from slower digestion
Natural sources of cascara
Cascara comes from the bark of the cascara buckthorn tree, which grows naturally in North America. Once harvested, the bark is dried and aged before being processed into herbal preparations — most commonly capsules, tablets, or extracts.
Recommended cascara dosage
The typical daily dose of cascara ranges from 20 mg to 30 mg of active hydroxyanthracene derivatives, depending on the product form. The right dose varies from person to person, so it should be chosen based on individual needs, the purpose of use, and overall health.
Possible side effects of cascara and interactions with medications
Cascara is generally intended for short-term use only. In some people — especially at higher doses — it can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or an electrolyte imbalance, and long-term use is not recommended. It may also interact with diuretics, cardiac glycosides, or other medications that affect electrolyte balance, so it's best to check with your doctor before taking it.
