8 Things That You Should Know About Cascara Sagrada

After reviewing several dozen detox products on the market, I realized that there was 1 common ingredient: Cascara sagrada. Since then, I’ve done a bunch of research to determine what it actually is and why so many cleansing products use it.

Here are 8 things that you should know about:

1) What Is Cascara Sagrada?

Cascara sagrada is a small to medium-size tree and is also known as Rhamnus purshiani cortex. It’s can be found in Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. The bark is what’s used for medicinal purposes. If you consume it fresh, it will cause you to vomit. It’s typically dried for 1 year before it’s sold in the stores.

2) What’s the History Behind The Herb?

Back in the 16th century, Northern California Indians called this herb the “sacred bark”. It has been used for it’s medicinal properties since 1877. Cascara sagrada also became an approved treatment in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia in 1890.1.

3) Why Should You Use Cascara Sagrada?

Cascara Sagrada has been used for constipation. As I’ve mentioned, I found it in many detox products. Many colon cleansing products use it for its ability to stimulate the bowels.

4) How Does It Work?

So how does it actually work? The active form of Cascara contains O-glycosides and C-glycosides, also referred to as Cascarosides. These Cascarosides stimulate the large intestines and causes bowel movements.

5) Who Shouldn’t Use Cascara Sagrada?

Those that are pregnant or are under the age of 12 should not take this herb without the advice of a physician. Also, if you have pre-existing intestinal issues, you’ll want to consult your physician as well before trying out Cascara.

6) How Long Can I Take This Herb?

This isn’t something you should take for the long-term. In fact, you shouldn’t abuse any herb that has medicinal properties. Using it too much may result in the loss of beneficial minerals. If you decide to take it, limit your intake to 8-10 days.

7) How Much Should You Take?

If you’re using it to soften stool, then 1-5 ml (in a tincture form) should be taken each day. However, if you’re using capsules, 2-30mg of cascarosides is recommended.

8) Things to Consider While Take Cascara Sagrada

While Cascara sagrada is natural, using it in your normal diet is not. Since it does create frequent bowel movements, you should replace the good things that you lose through the process. Two of those things are minerals and water. So drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day and take a multi-vitamin.

If you would like to know more about cleansing, check out our free colon cleansing detox course.