Re: cascara sagrada

Dear Johanna,

It is a purgative that should only be used for constipation and not longer than 8-10 days. Avoid if there is inflammation or ulceration. Unlike oxypoweder it is not a cleanser per se but a laxative herb. Constipation is an effect of an underlying cause, and should only be treated with laxative herbs when the causes are treated as well (liver bile duct congestion, diet, mealtimes, bedtimes, etc.). Otherwise, cascara sagrada can become habit-forming (due to the recurring constipation). In that sense this would apply to oxypowder as well. Not removing the causes will keep the effect intact, prompting continious intervention.

Andreas