Relationship: Constipation (adults) and Cascaroside

Evidence supporting the use of: Cascaroside
For the health condition: Constipation (adults)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Cascaroside refers to a group of anthraquinone glycosides found in cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) bark. Cascarosides are considered the primary active compounds responsible for cascara's laxative effects. The use of cascara sagrada for constipation is well documented both in traditional medicine (particularly by indigenous peoples of North America) and in modern pharmacological practice. However, the justification for its use is supported by scientific evidence: cascarosides act as stimulant laxatives by increasing colonic motility and inhibiting water and electrolyte absorption in the colon, thereby promoting bowel movements.

Multiple clinical studies and pharmacological investigations have confirmed the efficacy of cascara sagrada extracts (containing cascarosides) in treating constipation in adults. The U.S. FDA previously approved cascara sagrada as an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative ingredient, though it was later removed from the OTC monograph due to insufficient modern safety data, not due to lack of efficacy. Systematic reviews and authoritative texts, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Assessment Report and Commission E Monographs, acknowledge that cascara and its cascarosides can relieve occasional constipation when used short-term.

Potential adverse effects (e.g., electrolyte disturbances, dependency with long-term use) limit its recommendation to short-term use only. Overall, the scientific evidence supports the use of cascarosides for the short-term relief of constipation, although concerns about safety and regulatory status mean it should be used with caution and under professional guidance.

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Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Digestion (poor)

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Evidence supporting the use of: Cascaroside
For the health condition: Constipation (adults)

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Constipation (adults)

Other health conditions supported by Cascaroside

Products containing Cascaroside

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: CascarosideFor the health condition: Constipation (adults)

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Constipation (adults)

Other health conditions supported by Cascaroside

Products containing Cascaroside

Evidence supporting the use of: Cascaroside
For the health condition: Constipation (adults)