Cascara Sagrada
Frangula purshiana (Synonym: Rhamnus purshiana )
PLANT NAME
Cascara Sagrada
COMMON NAMES
Sacred Bark, Purshiana Bark, Persian Bark, Chittem Bark
BOTANICAL NAME
Frangula purshiana (Synonym: Rhamnus purshiana)
IDENTIFICATION
A large shrub or small tree reaching up to 30 feet, featuring reddish-brown bark, elliptical leaves with prominent parallel veins, small greenish-white flowers, and purplish-black drupes.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Aged inner bark.
CULINARY USES
Historically, an extract was used as a flavoring agent in some liqueurs and soft drinks, but it is not commonly used for culinary purposes due to its intense bitterness and laxative effects.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used widely by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest and later adopted into the US Pharmacopeia as a stimulant laxative for treating constipation. Contains anthraquinone glycosides that stimulate peristalsis in the large intestine.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to western North America, from British Columbia to northern California. The bark must be stripped in spring or early summer, and critically, it must be aged for at least one year (or artificially heat-treated) before use to degrade principles that cause severe griping and vomiting.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Fresh bark causes severe vomiting and cramping. Even aged bark should not be used for more than 1-2 weeks. Prolonged use can cause electrolyte imbalance, potassium depletion, and laxative dependence. Contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, and gastrointestinal conditions (like Crohn's or appendicitis).
RELATED PLANTS
Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica).