Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana) Herbal Tincture
Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana) Herbal Tincture is a traditionally prepared liquid herbal extract made from carefully selected aged cascara bark and extracted using alcohol and water to preserve and concentrate the plant’s naturally occurring compounds.
Traditionally, cascara bark is aged or properly processed before use, as freshly harvested bark may cause excessive gastrointestinal irritation.
Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of the soluble constituents found in the roots, bark, seeds, berries, or aerial parts of plants. This traditional extraction method preserves the plant’s vital properties and provides a convenient way to take herbal preparations.
In traditional herbal practice, Rhamnus purshiana, commonly known as Cascara Sagrada, forms part of the herbal materia medica and has a long history of traditional use where bowel function and digestive balance are considered.
This herbal tincture is dispensed as an unscheduled herbal preparation.
Traditional Herbal Use
Traditionally, Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana) has been used in herbal practice for patterns associated with:
• Support for occasional constipation
• Traditional digestive support
• Support for bowel motility in traditional herbal practice
• Short-term support for digestive balance
All indications are based on traditional herbal use.
No medical claims are made.
What Is a Herbal Tincture?
A herbal tincture is a liquid extract prepared by soaking plant material in a mixture of alcohol and water. This process extracts and preserves the naturally occurring constituents found in plants.
Infusions and decoctions (water-based herbal preparations) generally have a short shelf life of only one to two days. Tinctures, however, are preserved using alcohol or glycerine and water, allowing them to remain stable for several years.
Because tinctures are liquid extracts, they are easily absorbed and allow flexible dosing depending on individual needs.
Quality, Sourcing & Extraction
Herbal tinctures are liquid extracts prepared by extracting plant material in a mixture of alcohol and water to preserve the plant’s naturally occurring constituents.
The tinctures available on this website are supplied in a 1:10 extraction ratio, meaning one part plant material has been extracted in ten parts solvent.
Within our dispensary, these preparations may fall into two categories depending on the manufacturer and herbal preparation method:
Herbal Extract Tinctures
Traditional herbal extracts prepared from dried plant material and used within herbal medicine.
Homeopathic Mother Tinctures (Ø)
Concentrated plant extracts used as the starting material for preparing homeopathic remedies and sometimes dispensed directly within practitioner-based dispensing.
Manufacturing & Quality Assurance
The tinctures dispensed through our practice are not manufactured in our laboratories.
Instead, they are sourced from certified and licensed manufacturers in South Africa who specialise in the preparation of herbal and homeopathic medicines.
Our suppliers include trusted manufacturers such as:
• Fusion Homoeopathics
• W. Last
• Comed Health (Natura)
• Willow Wellness
• PhytoForce
These manufacturers operate under recognised quality standards and can provide relevant certifications and quality documentation supporting the quality and consistency of their herbal preparations.
Standard Dosage
Unless otherwise directed:
5 – 10 drops once to twice daily
Tinctures may be taken:
• directly on the tongue
• diluted in a small amount of water or juice
Cascara preparations are traditionally used short term and preferably in the evening to support normal bowel movements the following morning.
If you prefer to reduce the alcohol content, place the drops into hot water and allow the alcohol to evaporate before drinking.
Contraindications & Interactions
Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana) should be used with caution in the following situations:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Use is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Intestinal obstruction or inflammatory bowel conditions
Individuals with intestinal obstruction, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or acute gastrointestinal conditions should avoid use.
Long-term use
Prolonged use may lead to dependence or electrolyte imbalance.
Medication interactions
Consult a healthcare practitioner if you are taking prescription medication, particularly diuretics or heart medication.
Custom Herbal Tincture Blends
Within our dispensary we are able to prepare custom tincture complexes by blending multiple herbal tinctures together when required.
These blends may be prepared:
• according to a practitioner prescription
• as recommended by one of our homeopaths or practitioners
If you would like assistance with a custom herbal blend, you are welcome to submit your script or enquiry via WhatsApp or email, and our team will assist you.
Warnings & Precautions
Use for short-term support only.
Discontinue use if abdominal pain or cramping occurs.
Seek professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Not suitable for children unless directed by a healthcare practitioner.
Storage Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C
Protect from sunlight
Keep bottle tightly closed
Keep out of reach of children
Important Information
Schedule: Unscheduled
This is an unregistered medicine.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
