Cascara Sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana)
Folk Names: Brittle Wood, Buckthorn, California Buckthorn, Cascara, Cascara Buckthorn, Chittam Wood, Chittembark, Coffee Berry, Joster (Russian), Krushina (Russian), Purshiana Bark, Persian Bark, Polecat Tree, Sacred Bark
Description: Cascara Sagrada is a deciduous member of the buckthorn family. It is found in mountainous and forested areas in both North American in the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia to northern California and as far east as Idaho and in northern and central Russia. It may grow anywhere from fifteen to thirty feet with a one and one-half foot diameter. The bark is purplish brown, changing to dark reddish-brown with age. It is often covered with gray lichen. The elliptic to oblong-ovate leaves are alternate and dark green or yellow-green. They are finely and irregularly toothed or nearly entire. The leaves round at base and may be obtuse or acute at apex. Small, axillary, greenish-white flowers appear in finely hairy umbels from May to June. In September, two to three black, pea-sized drupes develop in each flower cluster.
Effects: gentle
Planet: Mercury, Saturn
Element: water
Associated Deities:
Traditions:
Cascara segrada is only gathered in spring or autumn and the bark should be dried for at least one year before it is considered safe for internal use. It is usually aged three years before use.
Magic:
To help win favorable verdict, infuse a teaspoon into a pint of water and sprinkle the infusion around your home and bed at night before any hearing. You may also carry some with you to court. It may be used in any amulet against evil and hexes and to dispel fears.
Money spells benefit from the addition of cascara.
Known Combinations:
none noted
Medical Indications: (Caution: Avoid using cascara segrada internally if you are experiencing diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pains, or any kind of inflammatory disorder of the intestinal tract. Long-term use may cause chronic diarrhea. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. The fresh bark causes nausea.) Parts Used: bark (stripped in early Spring or Autumn, dried and aged at least a yr)
Cascara is a bitter tonic, purgative, and parasiticide. It is one of the best and most common laxatives and colon cleansers on the market. The herb encourages peristalsis by irritating bowels, which makes it useful for chronic constipation. It also acts as a tonic on relaxed bowels. Cascara has also been used to treat gallstones, liver ailments, and chronic dyspepsia.
Honey from the flowers has also proven mildly laxative.
Nutrition:
none
Mercantile Uses:
The bark may be used to make a brown, yellow-tan, or gray dye.