Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Cascara Sagrada Bark Powder

Also known as: Cascara sagrada, Bitter bark, Buckthorn, Sacred bark, Rhamnus purshiana

Overview

Cascara sagrada is derived from the dried bark of the Rhamnus purshiana shrub, historically used as an over-the-counter laxative for constipation before losing FDA approval in 2002 due to insufficient safety and efficacy evidence. It is now categorized as a dietary supplement primarily known for its laxative properties, attributed to the active compounds called anthraquinones, which stimulate bowel movements. While it is offered in powder, capsule, or extract forms, the quality of clinical evidence supporting its use remains low, with scant rigorous trials available to evaluate its effectiveness across various applications.

Benefits

Cascara sagrada is primarily noted for its potential to relieve constipation, a benefit linked to its stimulant laxative properties. However, scientific literature regarding this effect is limited and often anecdotal, with no specific populations identified as gaining additional benefit. The expected time frame for the laxative effect is typically 6 to 8 hours after administration. Some studies have explored its use for other gastrointestinal conditions; however, evidence supporting these uses is minimal or non-existent, underscoring a substantial gap in high-quality research.

How it works

Cascara sagrada functions primarily as a stimulant laxative by enhancing intestinal motility and promoting water absorption through the action of anthraquinones, notably emodin. These compounds interact directly with the intestinal mucosa, fostering bowel movements. While its influence is primarily localized in the gastrointestinal system, the specific mechanisms of absorption and bioavailability of its active components remain inadequately studied.

Side effects

Cascara sagrada is generally considered possibly safe for short-term use, yet prolonged consumption poses risks such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Common side effects affecting more than 5% of users include stomach discomfort and cramping, while less frequent side effects may involve muscle weakness and cardiac issues. Rarely, it may lead to serious conditions such as melanosis coli, nephrotoxicity, or cardiotoxicity. It is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 10, and those with specific gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn's disease. Caution is advised when used with anticoagulants like warfarin, diuretics, and certain drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Dosage

While a well-established minimum effective dose for cascara sagrada is unavailable, typical recommendations include 1 g of dried bark or 2-6 mL of fluid extract. An optimal dosage range is between 100-300 mg of dried bark extract. It is advised to limit usage to less than two weeks to avoid serious side effects. Users should expect laxative effects to manifest within 6 to 8 hours of intake. Common forms of intake include dried bark and fluid extracts, though research has not definitively addressed factors affecting absorption.

FAQs

How should cascara sagrada be used?

It should be used for short-term relief of constipation, ideally following dosage instructions on the product label.

Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

No, it is contraindicated in pregnant women due to potential risks.

When can I expect results?

Relief from constipation typically occurs within 6-8 hours after taking the supplement.

Can I use cascara sagrada for bowel preparation before a colonoscopy?

No, cascara sagrada is not effective for prepping the bowel before procedures like colonoscopy.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects include stomach discomfort and cramps; rare effects can be more serious.

Research Sources

https://www.drugs.com/npp/cascara.html – The source provides a compilation of information on cascara sagrada, including dosing, potential side effects, and interactions, underscoring its historical use and current status as a supplement.
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/773.html – This source reviews cascara sagrada, detailing its uses, safety profile, and reported side effects, illuminating the insufficient evidence behind its market presence as a laxative.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-773/cascara-sagrada – A comprehensive view on the uses, effectiveness, and safety of cascara sagrada, highlighting the limited research supporting its benefits and safety concerns.
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/cascara.htm – The webpage discusses the chemistry and potential effects of cascara sagrada, along with its anecdotal uses and cautions against long-term use.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9305424/ – This study systematically reviews anthraquinone laxatives, addressing safety outcomes and the lack of a causal relationship with colorectal cancer, adding to the discourse on cascara sagrada's long-term use.