Herbal Laxative By Thorne Research Overview & Drug Interactions

Cascara sagrada is a tree native to the Pacific coast of North America. The name "cascara sagrada" means "sacred bark" in Spanish. The bark of Cascara sagrada is used in traditional medicine most commonly as a laxative as it contains anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate the muscles in the walls of the intestines, increasing peristalsis and promoting bowel movements. It is also used as a treatment for hemorrhoids and is sometimes used as a natural remedy for liver and gallbladder problems.

Rhubarb is a plant part of the Polygonaceae family. It is a popular ingredient in cooking and the root is used as a food flavoring agent. The stalk, root, and rhizome of rhubarb are sometimes used medicinally for a variety of ailments, including menopausal symptoms, pancreatitis and gastrointestinal conditions. The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain oxalic acid and are toxic. They should not be consumed.

Senna is a plant that belongs to the legume family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and it is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties. Senna contains compounds called sennosides, which are found in the leaves, stem, and pods of the plant. These compounds stimulate the muscles in the walls of the intestine, causing the bowel to contract and move waste through the intestines. Senna is used as a natural laxative to help relieve constipation. It is often marketed as a 'natural vegetable laxative'. It is available in a number of forms, including tablets, capsules, and a liquid extract. Although it can cause dependence with long-term use (i.e., the body becomes dependent on it for regular bowel movements), when compared to other stimulant laxatives, like bisacodyl, it is considered safer in that regard.