Cascara Sagrada

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Cascara Sagrada

AKA: Buckthorn, Sacred Bark

Species: Rhamnus prushiana

Active Chemical Component: Antracene compounds - emodin glycosides and aloin-like C-glycosides

Traditionally Used: The Pacific Northwest Native Americans used Cascara Sagrada as a laxative.

Uses:  The herb is commonly used today as a laxative.  The  FDA approved the herb for this use in 1990.

What you should know:  Cascara Sagrada is contraindicated in pregnancy because it crosses the placenta and may cause cathartic effects on the fetus leading to meconium staining and possible meconium aspiration during child birth.  The herb is also excreted in breast milk and may cause diarrhea in the breast-feeding infant.  Its use is not recommended.

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