Cascara Sagrada has been used by Native Americans for a long time. The powder made from this bark acts as a powerful laxative and is believed to strengthen the walls of the large intestine.

It contains compounds called anthraquinones. These act as laxatives in humans by causing peristalsis (contractions in the intestines and colon). These contractions stimulate bowel movements. It also contains emodin and aloe-emodin, which coat and strengthen the walls of the digestive tract, as well as several other harmless compounds that do not have a laxative effect.

Other notable constituents of Cascara Sagrada are hydroxyanthraquinone glycosides called cascarosides (approximately 70% of the total are cascarosides A, B, C and D, with other glycosides present in smaller amounts), which have laxative effects.

Some other important constituents include resins, tannins and lipids, which make up most of the bark’s other components. Along with these properties, Cascara Sagrada is also believed to improve muscle tone in the walls of the large intestine.

This herb also stimulates the secretion of minerals and releases lubricating fluids into the large intestine. These fluids soothe and strengthen the intestinal walls.