Cascara Sagrada

Cascara sagrada is a species of buckthorn native to the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, the name of which translates into "sacred bark" in Spanish.

The bark is stripped in spring and aged for a year before processing.

The bark must be aged for 12 months to allow the hydroxyanthraquinone glycosides chrysophanol, emodin and aloe-emodin, to break down. In the body, these agents are further degraded via enzymatic activity into anthrones, which are responsible for reducing transit time in the colon. Because this herb acts as a bulk-forming laxative, it must be taken with plenty of water.

May be used to produce a bitter tea.

• Relieves constipation
• packed with antioxidants
• improve blood flow
• reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system
• lower cholesterol levels.
• boost digestive health
• supports liver and kidney function
• enhance immune function
• supports weight management
• skin health
• mood booster

Making Cascara tea at home is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the full spectrum of its benefits. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

2 oz package

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of dried Cascara skins
• 4 cups of filtered water
• Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring the filtered water to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the dried Cascara skins to the simmering water and let it steep for 8-10 minutes, adjusting the time based on your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the Cascara skins.
4. Pour the Cascara tea into your favorite mug or cup.
5. If desired, stir in a teaspoon or two of honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor and provide additional health benefits.

Tips for Brewing the Perfect Cascara Tea:

• Use high-quality, dried Cascara skins for the best flavor and potency.
• Adjust the steeping time to suit your taste preferences; a longer steep will result in a stronger, more concentrated tea.
• Experiment with the ratio of Cascara to water to find your perfect balance.
• Consider using a tea infuser or teapot with a built-in strainer to make the brewing process easier.
• Enjoy your Cascara tea hot, over ice, or even blended into a refreshing smoothie.

 Drink the tea at room temperature, taking one to two cups a day before bed. To maximize the cardiovascular benefits of Cascara tea, consider pairing it with a diet rich in heart-healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil. To further enhance the digestive benefits of Cascara tea, consider adding a touch of raw honey or a squeeze of lemon. Honey can help soothe the digestive tract, while the citric acid in lemon can aid in the breakdown of food and promote healthy bowel function. 

The detoxifying properties of Cascara make it a potential ally for supporting the health and function of the liver and kidneys.

Cascara contains compounds such as chlorogenic acids and anthraquinones, have demonstrated the ability to protect these vital organs from damage and support their natural cleansing and filtration processes.

Avoid using cascara sagrada if you are pregnant or have ulcers, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids or other gastrointestinal conditions.

Pregnant women or nursing mothers should not use this herb as its effects can transfer. Not recommended for those with chronic diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome or ulcers. Cascara sagrada and senna commonly cause yellow-brown urine, the presence of which is harmless. Unless prescribed by a health provider, children under the age of 12 should not use this herb.

Active Compoounds: aloe emodin anthraglycosides, anthraquinones, barbaloin, cascarosides a and b, chrysalin, chrysophanic acid, emodin fatty acids, frangulin factors, glycosides lipids, resins, rhamnetin rhein, tannins