common names:

planting:     perennial  (bush)

traditional uses:  constipation

parts used:  bark

preparations:  capsules, fluid extracts, tea

taste:  bitter

precautions:  do not take if pregnant or breast feeding;  if you have a history of ulcers, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, or hemorrhoids;  bark must be aged to minimize side effects

side effects:  abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, discolored urine and potassium depletion

drug interactions:  not known

scientific studies:  FDA has approved cascara as a safe and effective laxative.

dosage:  tea by decoction - 1 teaspoonful of dried and aged bark per cup of water; capsules - 300mg as needed;  extracts - one teaspoonful as needed

Warning:  Do not take stimulant laxatives such as cascara on a routine basis.  This could lead to laxative dependency.  Use only bark that has been aged, preferably for 3 years.