Buy now : cascara sagrada 450mg 100 caps, 100 caps

Cascara sagrada is a powerful laxative that works by stimulating the peristalsis of the intestines and colon to expel the blockage. The name means 'sacred bark' in Spanish, and it is the bark of the American buckthorn tree that is used. The bark is first aged for about a year, because the fresh bark induces severe vomiting and diarrhea, but after aging its effects are reduced so it can be used as a laxative with no ill effects. However, it is important that cascara sagrada is not used regularly, but only on occasion as needed. Otherwise the bowel can become dependent on it, and it can also discolor the colon.

The constituents that are believed to be active in inducing the wavelike peristaltic motion are anthraquinone glycosides: emodin, frangulin, carscarosides A, B, C and D, HAD (hydroxyanthracene derivatives), rhein, malic acid and aloin. It is believed that the anthraquinones are absorbed through the intestine and enter the circulation. They then stimulate the autonomous nervous system to induce peristalsis in the intestine, particularly in the colon. Aloin and HAD act specifically on the colon to induce purging. The constituents of cascara sagrada also possess anti-tumor properties and are antiviral.

It is still under investigations for its anticancer properties which rather belies the claims that cascara sagrada may cause cancer in the colon if taken constantly, though more tests are needed to establish this. What is more likely to happen is that peristalsis will not occur except when the anthraquinones are present. That is, the colon will become dependent on cascara sagrada, so it should only be used to treat constipation when it occurs, and not to prevent it.

• Cascara Sagrada

The Cascara sagrada 450mg 100 caps Sale Price: $4.79 - Vitamins or Herbs Should be taken as directed on the bottle.