Cascara Bark Cut/Crushed

Cascara sagrada, or Frangula purshiana, is a species of buckthorn. Native to North America, in British Colombia, California and Montana, cascara bark thrives on the edges of deciduous forests in moist, acidic soil conditions. Please enquire about placing a bulk order of wholesale cascara bark cut or crushed today. Joseph Flach & Sons have been global wholesale botanical merchants since 1882. Our expertise and experience ensures our customers receive a quality product and buying experience.

How is it used?

Rich in emodin, this bitter herb is believed to have antifungal and anti-microbial properties. In traditional medicine, the dried bark was used as a laxative. However, today, it is not prescribed for this use and is instead taken as a dietary supplement. Nowadays, the bark makes an attractive addition to potpourri and is used to make bitter tea blends. These are more popular uses.

Historical uses of cascara

Cascara sagrada was named by American Indians. It means sacred bark, and would refer to stripping the bark from the tree in spring and into early summer. They would infuse the dried bark in boiling water to prepare a decoction for the treatment of constipation. 

Cascara was adopted by American physicians in 1877 and has been officially listed in the American Pharmacopoeia since 1894. The herb is considered one of the world’s most common treatments for constipation and has been a key ingredient in many pharmaceutical laxatives for years.

Believed to have a laxative effect

The bark contains cascarosides - a chemical that stimulates the bowel and may bring about a laxative effect. Therefore it is believed to be useful in treating constipation. It is believed that the dried bark will retain its laxative power for years when stored.

Culinary uses

Cascara bark cut is commonly used to make a laxative herbal tea. It makes for a bitter taste that can be blended with sweeter herbs or a natural sweetener.

Important: Joseph Flach & Sons are not herbalists and are unable to offer advice on and are unable to attest to the efficacy or suitability of a material for use in a herbal remedy or as a product ingredient.