Product Name
Cascara Sagrada Extract
Latin Name
Rhamnus Purshiana
Assay
Hydroxyanthracene Glycosides ≥ 10.0%, 20.0% by UV (10:1, 20:1)
Colour
Brown fine powder with characteristic odor and taste
Packing
In 25kgs fiber drums
Storage
Keep container unopened in cool, dry place. Keep away from strong light.
Shelf Life
24 months from date of production
Cascara Sagrada Extract Hydroxyanthracene Glycosides: Product Description
1 Product Overview
Cascara Sagrada Extract is derived from the dried bark of Rhamnus purshiana (syn. Frangula purshiana), a tree native to the Pacific Northwest. Renowned for its natural laxative properties, this extract is standardized to contain 8.0–25.0% hydroxyanthracene glycosides, with ≥60% cascarosides (expressed as cascaroside A). This formulation complies with the stringent specifications of the European Pharmacopoeia and British Pharmacopoeia, ensuring consistent potency and safety.
2 Key Active Constituents
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Hydroxyanthracene Glycosides & Other Compounds: Emodin, chrysophanic acid, and tannins, which may contribute to secondary therapeutic effects.
- Primary components include cascarosides A, B, C, D (diastereoisomeric pairs) and aloe-emodin-8-O-glucoside.
- Cascarosides constitute 60–70% of total hydroxyanthracene derivatives, responsible for stimulating colonic peristalsis to relieve constipation.
3 Therapeutic Benefits
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Natural Laxative: Effectively alleviates occasional and habitual constipation by enhancing intestinal motility.
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Colon Tonic: Restores normal bowel function without causing dependency when used short-term.
4 Quality & Production Standards
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Source: Bark aged ≥1 year to optimize bioactive content.
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Extraction: Uses boiling water or hydroalcoholic solvents (≥60% ethanol) to preserve cascarosides.
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Testing:
- TLC and UHPLC-DAD ensure precise quantification of hydroxyanthracene glycosides and cascarosides.
- Absorbance ratios (515 nm/440 nm) validated to avoid false results.
5 Safety & Regulatory Compliance
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Contraindications:
- Not for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in individuals with intestinal obstructions, Crohn’s disease, or ulcers.
- Avoid prolonged use (>1–2 weeks) to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
⚠️ Label Warnings (per EU/US guidelines)
- "Do not use in children under 12 years."
- "Discontinue if diarrhea or abdominal pain occurs."
6 Applications
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Pharmaceuticals: Core ingredient in laxative tablets and syrups.
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Supplements: Available in powder form (2%–50% cascarosides) for capsules or functional foods.
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Cosmetics: Potential inclusion in skincare products for anti-inflammatory properties.
7 Packaging & Storage
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Form: Brown free-flowing powder.
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Shelf Life: 3 years in airtight, light-resistant packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cascara Sagrada Extract used for?
Cascara Sagrada Extract is primarily used as a natural laxative to effectively relieve occasional and habitual constipation by stimulating bowel movements and enhancing colonic peristalsis.
Why does the bark need to be aged for at least one year?
The bark of Rhamnus purshiana is aged for at least one year to optimize its bioactive content and ensure that the compounds are in a form that is effective yet safe for gastrointestinal consumption.
Who should avoid using Cascara Sagrada Extract?
It is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 12 years of age, and individuals suffering from intestinal obstructions, Crohn's disease, or ulcers.
What are the main safety precautions during use?
Avoid prolonged use (longer than 1–2 weeks) to prevent potential electrolyte imbalances. You should also discontinue use immediately if diarrhea or abdominal pain occurs.
What regulatory and pharmacopoeia standards does this extract meet?
This extract is manufactured to comply with the strict specifications of both the European Pharmacopoeia and the British Pharmacopoeia, ensuring consistent quality, purity, and potency.
