The bark of the cascara sagrada tree has been used as an herbal laxative for centuries. Early Spanish explorers called it sacred bark (English translation of cascara sagrada), after observing how Native Americans used this herb in folk medicine applications. The bark was steeped to make a tea used to alleviate constipation. In the 1890s the US Pharmacopeia recognized cascara sagrada's medicinal uses, mainly as a natural laxative.* The active component in cascara sagrada, anthraquinone, induces peristalsis, the muscle contractions in the large intestine that encourage bowel movements. These contractions help to tone the relaxed muscles lining the intestine. Although it is used primarily to alleviate constipation, cascara sagrada may benefit inflammation of the colon, upset stomach and liver problems. The presence of cascara sagrada also encourages increased bile secretion from the gallbladder, which helps to break up obstructions that have formed in the gallbladder.* *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.