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Cascara Sagrada
Cascara Sagrada refers to a tree found in the buckthorn family whose bark is
used as an alternative herbal supplement in medical treatment and is also known
by its botanical name Rhamnus purshiana. Often referred to as California Buckthorn
or Sacred Bark (which is the English translation of Cascara Sagrada, a Spanish
term used by Spanish explorers who encountered the bark after interacting with
various Native American tribes), Cascara Sagrada has been used for centuries
as a natural laxative.
The medicinal properties of the Cascara Sagrada tree are found within its reddish-brown
bark. The bark is harvested mainly from wild trees found in Oregon, Washington
and southern British Columbia. The bark is usually collected in spring and early
summer as during this period, the bark is easily peeled from the wood and dried
in the shade. The bark is then aged for at least one year as a way to reduce
the effects of its active principles. This is done as freshly dried Cascara
Sagrada bark produces a laxative too strong for safe use and also contains a
compound that induces vomiting. Originally used by Native Americans, Cascara
Sagrada became popular among European settlers as a traditional remedy for constipation
and other gastrointestinal discomforts. In 1877, it became introduced into western
medicine when it was produced by the pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly & Company,
which introduced ‘Elixir Purgans’ that contained Cascara Sagrada. It is still
a popular ingredient in over-the-counter laxatives to this day.
Cascara Sagrada can be used to treat a variety of medical ailments. These include
controlling occasional constipation, as Cascara Sagrada contains anthraquinone
derivatives which stimulate peristalsis, the wavelike contractions of the large
intestine responsible for the movement of food within the digestive system.
By speeding the movement of food through the digestive system, Cascara Sagrada
reduces the chance of the intestine absorbing the liquid from the stool. This
allows the body production of a softer, quicker bowel movement. Additionally,
Cascara Sagrada has been linked with easing chronic constipation in elderly
people, as it is a mild laxative that is safe to use by the elderly. Cascara
Sagrada can also be used to supplement conventional treatments in the treatment
of hemorrhoids and anal fissures. In this process, Cascara Sagrada is used as
a way to prevent the pressure and pain associated with hemorrhoids and anal
fissures.
Cascara Sagrada is available in a variety of forms that include: tablet, powder,
liquid, dried herb/tea, and capsule. When used to treat constipation or hemorrhoids-related
discomfort, the recommended dosage is 1 teaspoon of liquid extract three times
per day. However, Cascara Sagrada should not be used continuously for more than
two weeks as long-term use can lead to the loss of critical fluids and salts,
particularly potassium from the body. This can lead to chronic diarrhea or weakness.
Individuals that have an inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s Disease or
an ulcerative colitis should avoid using Cascara Sagrada. Additionally, women
who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use Cascara Sagrada unless it
is recommended by their doctor, as the effects of Cascara Sagrada on the fetus
and infant are unclear.
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