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Cascara Sagrada is commonly named sacred bark, and was thus named by
Spanish missionaries who saw the inhabitants using cascara as a laxative. It has
been marketed since 1877 and used by the medical profession.
Cascara stimulates the lining of the upper intestine, producing natural
peristaltic movement in this way. The glycosides, when in contact with the
bacteria present in the bowel, form metabolites which enter the lining, thus
producing normal peristaltic action.
It is intended for the occasional constipation situation, not for ongoing
chronic constipation.
In the case of haemorrhoids it can be helpful as the cascara softens the
stool.
Children and the elderly can tolerate this one as it is mild, but it is for
the occasional use.
If taken continually the laxative effect decreases, but it continues to tone
the bowel.
This is a very popular product and is also in the combination named LBS 11, (also
known as Herbalax and Lower Bowel Stimulant, in the combination list).
Cascara Sagrada is non habit forming but one may become dependent on
laxatives, even of the herbal kind, so adding necessary fiber and a high amount
of fluids and/or high fluid content foods to the daily regime could be very
helpful. Also the addition of rough grain bread rather than the white or "brown"
bread could also be very helpful.
All the various types of roughage are so important for normal bowel movements
and the fruit and vegetable fibers along with whole grain fibers such as
oatmeal, whole wheat and whole rice is very important. Sometimes eating only one
type of fiber is not enough to do the trick.
Common names: Cascara, cascara buckthorn, cascara sagrada, chittembark, sacred bark,
wahoo.
See precautions below please.
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