As the saying goes "If you build it, they will come", here on my site it is "If you ask it, I will do my best to find an answer". Recently, a visitor to the IBS discussion forum asked if I knew anything about the herb cascara sagrada and its helpfulness for IBS. I had never heard of cascara and so I was intrigued as I am always happy to learn about anything that might ease IBS! It took me a little while, but I did my research and I have put together an article on the subject:
If you are considering trying cascara sagrada, you must first read my article. I was surprised to read about some possible safety issues with this herb. You need to know about these issues in order to make an informed decision for yourself.
Have you had experience with cascara sagrada? Please share it on the IBS discussion forum.
I have not been officially diagnosed with IBS, but after years of never feeling quite right (I’m 45) and worsening symptoms in the past year, I am finally recognizing myself in everything I have read about IBS-C. I have used cascara on and off for several years. It can cause some cramping, but it was worth the (formerly) predictable overnight relief. In recent months I find it no longer does this for me. I have never had any other side effects other than ocassional cramping (not that bad) and it is much milder than other “natural remedies” like senna. It never produced diarrhea, just complete relief from constipation and bloating. I am actually hoping that if I do not use it for several weeks, it may work for me again.
I use cascara segrada almost always I’ve never had any symptoms from it and it always works effectively. The trick is, that it takes anywhere from 6 to 24 hours to kick in and it needs to be taken once with every meal which means three times a day and it will say this on the bottle if you exceed that amount, then here come the cramps other than that it is very effective
Correction to the statement above. It says take (1) capsule A DAY with water or juice at meal time. So it is actually one a day. Might be overdoing it if taking more than that.
I’ve been taking Cascara Sagrada or a year it’the best thing that ever happened to me. It make me feel like a new person after i have a bowel movement i fell like a new person. I had no side effects. I take Cascara 3x a week.
I take it every day. 10 years. I love it. No ill effects. Cleanest blood ever seen said the doctor.
Question…can the suppliment be used as a dietary suppliment as is stated on the bottle i have…
Yes, cascara sagrada can be taken as a supplement. But, first please read my article on the safety of cascara sagrada and then check with your doctor.