Traditional Uses
Mode of Action
- The most common laxative
used in both herbal medicine and orthodox pharmacy
- Contains anthroquinone glycosides which
encourage peristalsis (the natural muscular movement that pushes food
through the small intestine) and tone relaxed muscles of the digestive
system
Drug Interactions
- May increase the effects of anticoagulant
therapy ("blood thinners")
- Overuse may lead to loss of potassium
and increase the toxicity of digitalis glycosides
- Reduces absorption of oral medicines
Cautions
- Gradually lower the amount of Cascara
Sagrada being used as the bowel becomes more normalized
- Avoid taking if pregnant or breast
feeding
- Do not use for more than 1-2 weeks
- Use with caution in inflammatory bowel disease
or intestinal ulcers
Recommended Dose
- 360-720 mg at bedtime. (Dose may vary from
brand to brand)
References
- Bisset, 1994; Elias, 1995; Hoffman, 1990;
Lewis, 1977; Newall, 1996; Tyler, 1993; Tyler, 1994; Weiner, 1994
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