Rhamnus purshiana – pulverized bark

Cascara Sagrada means "sacred bark" in Spanish. It must be aged naturally before processing to reduce some of the irritating active ingredients. The powdered version is ideal for short decoctions or incorporation into traditional formulations.

Description

Fine powder, reddish-brown to dark brown in color. Homogeneous texture, woody and slightly bitter odor.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Cascara, cascara sagrada, sacred bark
• Latin name: Rhamnus purshiana
• Family: Rhamnaceae
• Part used: Bark
• Form: Powder
• Origin: North America (USA, Canada)
• English name: Cascara bark powder
• German name: Faulbaumrindenpulver
• Name in Spanish: Polvo de cáscara sagrada
• Name in Italian: Polvere di corteccia di cascara
• Name in Arabic: مسحوق قشرة القَسْكارا (Masḥūq Qishrat al-Qaskara)

Main virtues

This bark, historically associated with gentle bowel movements and intestinal comfort, was valued in Native American traditions. Today, its use is regulated due to its powerful action.

Main constituents

Anthranoids (cascarosides), tannins, resins, organic acids, anthracene glycosides.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 g of powder in 250 ml of water, simmer for 5 minutes then infuse for 10 minutes.
• Supervised use: consult a trained professional for any internal or prolonged use.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Regulated plant: only under authorized medical or pharmaceutical control.
• Contraindicated in case of pregnancy, breastfeeding, colitis, intestinal obstruction, or prolonged use.
• Possible side effects: cramps, diarrhea, dependence in case of excessive use.

History and origin

Cascara sagrada was a favorite remedy among Native American tribes in the American West. Later adopted by European settlers, it was introduced into 19th-century pharmacopoeias. It is now regulated to limit the risks of uncontrolled use.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in an airtight container, away from heat and humidity.
• Packaging: loose powder or sealed bag.
• Appearance: fine, dark brown powder.
• Odor: woody, slightly bitter and earthy.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• French and American pharmacopoeias
• North American Herbalist Traditions
• Regulatory phytobotanical corpus

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