HerbMate Library

Cascara sagrada bark

Frangula purshiana

Digestive

Cascara sagrada bark is the traditional form of cascara used as a stimulant laxative for short-term constipation relief. It is not meant for daily or long-term use.

Key Benefits

Short-term constipation relief (stimulant laxative).
Works when gentler approaches aren’t enough for some people.

Common Issues It May Help With

Occasional constipation (short-term only).

How To Use (Simple)

Follow label dosing; start low to reduce cramping.
Use for a short run (days, not weeks).
Hydrate well and stop if diarrhea occurs.

Taste / Notes

Bitter, harsh.

Evidence Level

Known stimulant laxative effect; main concern is safety with overuse.

Cautions

Avoid in pregnancy/breastfeeding, children, bowel disease, unexplained abdominal pain, or suspected obstruction. Long-term use can cause dependence and electrolyte imbalance.

Interactions

May lower potassium—caution with diuretics, digoxin, steroids, and meds sensitive to electrolytes.

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