Traditional Uses

• Constipation

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