Cascara sagrada comes from the bark of the Frangula purshiana tree. Anthraquinone compounds in the bark stimulate the intestinal lining to trigger bowel movements.
People use it for short-term relief of occasional constipation. Take it at bedtime, then expect a bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours. Adult doses depend on the form. Dried bark: 1.5 to 2 grams. Standardized extract: 150 to 300 milligrams (usually providing 0.5% to 1% anthraquinones).
Don’t use cascara sagrada for more than one week without a doctor’s oversight. Overuse can cause dependence, electrolyte imbalances, and even worse constipation. Avoid it altogether if you have intestinal