Cascara Sagrada Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Cascara Sagrada is a bark extract commonly used as a natural laxative to support digestive health.

Cascara Sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) is a natural laxative made from the bark of a North American shrub. It has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples and in traditional herbal medicine.

The bark contains compounds called anthraquinones, which stimulate the bowels and promote peristalsis. It is commonly used for occasional constipation and should be aged before use to reduce potential side effects.

Cascara is taken for short-term relief of constipation. Long-term use is not recommended due to the risk of dependency and electrolyte imbalance. It should be used with care and under professional guidance.

Other names & forms of Cascara Sagrada supplement : rhamnus purshiana, cascara, sacred bark, cascara bark extract

Benefits

Cascara Sagrada contains anthraquinone glycosides that stimulate bowel contractions, promoting natural elimination of waste and support for colon health.

• Helps relieve occasional constipation and supports Digestive Health through gentle laxative action.
• May contribute to Detoxification & Cleansing by promoting regular bowel movements and toxin removal.
• Used to maintain healthy colon function and overall General Health.

Dosage

The Cascara Sagrada supplement dosage is personalized to meet individual health needs and medical advice:

• Occasional constipation: 300–500 mg/day of Cascara Sagrada bark extract (standardized to cascarosides).
• Traditional use: 1–2 grams/day of dried aged bark, taken before bedtime.
• Capsule form: 300 mg once daily, short-term only.
• Recommendation: Not for long-term use; avoid in pregnancy or bowel disease.

Cascara Sagrada dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Cascara Sagrada is prized for its natural laxative effect, but you may notice mild side effects as your body responds. Watch for:

• Abdominal cramping or discomfort as bowel motility increases
• Mild diarrhea or loose stools, especially when first starting
• Possible stomach upset—nausea or gas—if taken on an empty stomach
• Occasional electrolyte imbalance leading to mild weakness
• Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in individuals sensitive to Rhamnaceae family plants

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

• Laxatives and stool softeners: Cascara Sagrada’s potent anthraquinones can amplify the action of bisacodyl or supplements such as Senna Leaves, increasing risk of diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance—space dosing by at least two hours.
• Diuretics and ACE inhibitors: Its stimulative effect on gut motility and mild diuretic properties may add to furosemide or Dandelion Root, affecting hydration and electrolytes—monitor closely.
• Oral contraceptives: Excessive diarrhea from Cascara Sagrada can decrease absorption of pills; take birth control at least four hours apart to ensure efficacy.
• Cardiac glycosides: Electrolyte disturbances (especially hypokalemia) may heighten digoxin toxicity; check potassium levels regularly.

Precautions

Before using Cascara Sagrada, confirm you don’t fit any of these cautionary categories. If you do, consult your healthcare provider:

• Individuals with inflammatory bowel conditions (e.g., Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis): May worsen inflammation; avoid during active flare-ups
• People with dehydration or electrolyte imbalances: Laxative effect can exacerbate; use cautiously and monitor fluids
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Potential uterine stimulant; avoid unless directed by a healthcare professional
• Those with intestinal obstruction or fecal impaction: Contraindicated—could worsen obstruction or cause severe cramping
• Patients on diuretics or cardiac medications: Risk of additional fluid and electrolyte loss; monitor closely

Studies

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.