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Botanical

Cascara sagrada

Cascara sagrada is the dried bark of Rhamnus purshiana, a North American tree. It contains anthraquinones, which stimulate bowel movements.

Also listed as Rhamnus purshianus, Rhamnus davurica, Cascara Sagrada Extract, Cascara Sagrada Powder

Gut Health

Why the short time limit matters

EU guidance limits cascara medicines to adults and adolescents over 12 and no more than one week. Longer use can disturb water and salt balance, impair normal bowel function and cause laxative dependence. Persistent or worsening constipation calls for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. 1

Who should avoid cascara?

EMA excludes use during pregnancy or breastfeeding and in children under 12. Other exclusions include bowel obstruction or narrowing, loss of bowel-muscle movement, appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease, unexplained abdominal pain and severe dehydration. Certain medicines require a doctor’s review before concurrent use. 1

Side effects are not a sign of cleansing

Cascara can cause abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, itching or rash. Long-term use may discolor the bowel lining, disrupt fluid and salt balance, or cause protein or blood in urine. These are adverse effects, not benefits of a cleanse. 1

For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.

Sources

  1. Cascara: Summary for the public European Medicines Agency, 2020