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Cascara Sagrada |
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Cascara Sagrada
CASCARA SAGRADA
Rhamnus purshiana
History and Folklore
The Spaniards learnt the uses of this plant in the 16th century from the Native Americans of the West Coast States, where Cascara is at home. The Natives called it 'Sacred Bark', which the Spaniards simply translated into their own tongue and so it became Cascara Sagrada. It is in fact an American cousin of our own Alder Buckthorn tree, though much milder in action. Like Alder Buckthorn bark, Casacara also has to age for at least a year before it can be used. Since 1890 it has been official in the American pharmacopoeia.
Medicinal Uses:
Cascara sagrada is an excellent laxative, which gently stimulates the peristaltic movement of the intestines while simultaneously stimulating the bile flow and other digestive juices. It is not cathartic in the dramatic sense of the word, but gentle and resolute, making it suitable even for the elderly. There are many underlying causes that can result in constipation. Cascara can overcome any of them and is particularly useful where bowel tone is lacking. However, although Casacara is extremely gentle in its action and not harmful to the bowels, it is never a good idea to use laxatives continuously for more than a couple of weeks since the body gets habituated to the external stimulation. Cascara sagrada is best mixed with liquorice bark, which does a good job of masking the bitter flavour.
Magical Uses:
Cascara can be used to move through spiritual blockages. Constipation is often a sign of holding on, bottling up, getting stuck, or being prevented from expressing ourselves, resulting in frustration and pent up anger. Cascara can help us release those blockages, it helps with the process of letting go. Cascara is the plant helper that can turn frustration into action and empowerment.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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