Cascara Sagrada Bark (Frangula purshiana) – Dried Herb, Wildcrafted

Cascara Sagrada is a deciduous shrub of the American Northwest, ranging from northern California to the Alaska panhandle in moist forests below 5,000 feet. It is also found in the Rockies of Idaho and Montana.

Spanish priests in California named the tree Cascara Sagrada, meaning “sacred bark”. This name has two possible origins: the first is from the medicinal properties of the bark and the second from its resemblance to wood used for the ark of the covenant.

Cascara Sagrada is never to be used fresh and must be aged for at least a year to break down its anthrone chemicals. If the bark is not aged it is a purgative and will cause intense intestinal spasms and vomiting. Cascara Sagrada is an herbal remedy that used to be a common ingredient in some over-the-counter laxatives.

Properties:

The taste and energetics of Cascara Sagrada are bitter, pungent, cooling and astringent. Cascara has an affinity towards the liver, gallbladder, digestive system and gastrointestinal system.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Cascara Sagrada Bark to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Cautions & contraindications:

Contraindicated with intestinal obstruction, abdominal pain or any inflammatory condition of the intestines. Not for use in excess of 8 days or in combination with other herbs and medication unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.