The Spanish named this herb Cascara Sagrada, which means “sacred bark” as it was held sacred as a healing herb. It was used by the Native Americans as a solution to the problem of constipation. It is a relative of the herb buckthorn, but found to be much gentler in its action while still being effective.

The active components of Cascara that has been found to contribute to its laxative action are called anthraquinone glycosides. These phytochemicals cause a largely local effect, mainly assisting the peristaltic action of the colon, and secondarily causing some accumulation of fluid in the intestinal lumen (or inner space). It is these that contribute to this herb’s effectiveness in the relief of constipation.