Cascara Sagrada, an herbal stimulant laxative, is the complete name of this herbal treatment used in combination with other herbs for colon cleansing. Cascara Sagrada is a common ingredient in most herbal colon cleansers, according to the Global Healing Center website. Cascara also is utilized as a stimulant laxative following surgeries, according to the website Medline.
Dangers
Cascara Sagrada is known to heighten the symptoms of diarrhea and constipation and cause serious digestive problems, contrary to what it's supposed to relieve. Cascara Sagrada contains anthraquinone compounds, a yellow crystalline powder chiefly used for dyes, which are known cancer-causing agents. Lab animals developed colon cancer and tumors as a result of testing done on Cascara Sagrada, according to the Global Healing Center website. Some Cascara Sagrada users developed lesions in the colon, abdominal pain, liver damage, rectal bleeding and acute hepatitis or a swelling of the liver.
Safety Concerns
Cascara Sagrada is dangerous for persons with certain diseases such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, anemia, Crohn's disease and diverticulitis/diverticulosis. Never take Cascara Sagrada for more than seven consecutive days as excessive use possibly causes the colon to become dependent on its use. In such as case, bowel movements will not occur without the aid of some type of laxative, according to the Colon Cleansing Report Card website.
Side Effects
Severe cramps and lingering abdominal pains may result from the use of Cascara Sagrada or a product which contains Cascara Sagrada, according to the Colon Cleansing Report Card website. Additional side effects include bloating, nausea, liver toxicity and loss of bodily fluids. Also, electrolyte imbalance, urine discoloration and bloody, severe diarrhea occasionally occur with the use of Cascara Sagrada. Consulting with your doctor before taking Cascara Sagrada is recommended.
Tags: Cascara Sagrada, according Colon, according Colon Cleansing, according Global, according Global Healing, Card website, Cascara Sagrada according