Brand name:
Cascara
Latin name: Rhamnus purshianus
Other names: Bitter Bark, California
Buckthorn, Cascara Sagrada, Chittem
Bark, Dogwood Bark, Purshiana Bark,
Sacred Bark, Sagrada Bark, Yellow
Bark
A Remedy For
Constipation
Because it produces quick, easy
bowel movements with a soft or loose
stool, Cascara is used by people
with hemorrhoids or anal fissures (crack in skin near the anus). It is often
recommended following anal or rectal
surgery, and is used for bowel
cleansing prior to bowel examinations and similar diagnostic tests.
What It Is; Why It Works
Native to the Pacific Northwest,
Cascara probably earned the name
"sacred bark" through its ability to
relieve constipation so quickly. The
medicinal bark is dried for one year
before use in order to allow its
naturally harsh ingredients to
mellow.
The active ingredient in Cascara is
found in several over-the-counter
laxatives, including Doxidan and
Peri-Colace. A strong, stimulant-type
laxative, Cascara causes vigorous
muscular contractions of the intestinal
wall. This speeds passage of
intestinal contents, leaving less time for liquid to be absorbed by the body
and thus assuring a softer stool.
Cascara may be active against herpes
simplex, the virus that causes cold
sores and genital herpes. Research
on this possibility is currently
underway.
Avoid If...
Do not take Cascara if you have an
intestinal obstruction, appendicitis,
abdominal pain of unknown origin, or
an inflammatory intestinal disorder
such as ulcerative colitis,
irritable bowel syndrome, or Crohn's disease. Not for children under 12.
Avoid the fresh rind of the Cascara
plant. Taking it can lead to intestinal
spasms and pain, bloody diarrhea,
and kidney irritation.
Special Cautions
Cascara may cause cramping and
nausea. Long-term use can deplete the
body's stores of potassium and
sodium, which are necessary for normal
heart and muscle function. Chronic
use may also cause kidney problems
and fluid retention, irregular heart
rhythms, bone deterioration, and laxative dependence. Do not use any
stimulating laxative such as Cascara for more than 2 weeks without consulting
your doctor.
Possible Drug Interactions
Because laxatives such as Cascara
can cause fluid loss and potassium
deficiency, you should not combine
it with other potassium-depleting
medications, including:
Thiazide diuretics such as
HydroDIURIL
Steroid medications such as
prednisone (Deltasone)
Licorice root
When potassium is low, certain heart
medications may have a stronger
effect. Be wary of laxatives such as
Cascara while taking digoxin (Lanoxin)
or a medication for heart
irregularities.
Special Information If You Are
Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor before using
this medication.
How To Prepare
You can make a tea by pouring
boiling water over 2 grams (about
three-quarters of a teaspoonful) of
finely cut Cascara. Steep for 10
minutes, then strain.
Typical Dosage
Cascara is taken orally. Use the
smallest amount necessary to maintain a
soft stool.
Cascara is available as crushed,
powdered, or dry extracts and in various liquid forms. Strengths of
commercial preparations may vary. Follow the manufacturer's labeling whenever
available.
Overdosage
No information on overdosage is
available. 