Cascara Sagrada 10:1

History and Uses:
Cascara Sagrada is a shrub that is native to North America. Literally, Cascara Sagrada means "Sacred Bark," and the name dates back to the seventeenth century, when Native Americans introduced the bark to Spanish explorers as a remedy for constipation and upset stomach. The bark was first marketed to the medical community in 1877, when the pharmaceutical company, Parke-Davis, introduced a bitter emetic fluid extract, and in 1890, the plant was officially listed in the United States Pharmacopoea. Cascara Sagrada is popularly used to treat chronic constipation. As a nutritional supplement, it supports and strengthens the colon, liver, gallbladder and digestive system. Cascara is thought to be, perhaps, the safest and most certain natural laxative available and can be used to restore tone to the colon and thereby overcome laxative dependence in the elderly. The herb is safe and effective for detoxifying and cleansing programs, as opposed to the harsher laxatives, such as Senna. Cascara Sagrada is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B-2, vitamin B-5, calcium, manganese and potassium. The natural constituents found in Cascara Sagrada stimulate the secretion of digestive fluids, increase the flow of bile and cleanse the intestines. Cascara Sagrada is thought to be beneficial for treating a sluggish gallbladder, digestive problems, enlarged liver, intestinal parasites, jaundice and colitis. In addition, Cascara Sagrada has been used to treat hemorrhoids and a variety of skin problems. To prevent gripe, it is best combined with some carminative herbs such as Anise, Fennel or Caraway Seeds.