Description

Cascara Sagrada is a botanical extract derived from the dried bark of the *Rhamnus purshiana* tree, standardized for its key bioactive components. This natural product is valued for its reliable and consistent pharmacological activity, making it a critical ingredient in standardized herbal formulations. It is primarily utilized by manufacturers in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and herbal supplement industries seeking a well-characterized botanical active.

Application

• Pharmaceutical Formulations: Used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in laxative and digestive aid preparations.
• Dietary Supplements & Nutraceuticals: Incorporated into capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts for natural digestive support.
• Traditional Herbal Medicine (THMPD): Serves as a key component in registered traditional herbal medicinal products within regulatory frameworks like the EU's THMPD.
• Functional Food & Beverage: Potential use in specialized health-focused food products requiring standardized herbal inputs.
• Veterinary Pharmaceuticals: Applied in animal health products for digestive regulation.
• Research & Development: Sourced by laboratories for pharmacological studies, standardization methods, and new product development.

Basic Information

Product Name	Cascara Sagrada
CAS No.	84650-55-5
Molecular Formula	Complex botanical extract; primary actives are anthraquinone glycosides (e.g., cascarosides A-D)
Molecular Weight	N/A (Botanical Extract)
Synonyms	Cascara; Rhamnus purshiana bark extract; Sacred bark; Chittem bark; Purshiana bark; Cortex Rhamni Purshianae; Cascara Sagrada Bark Powder; Cascara Fluid Extract
EINECS	Contact for details

Quality Control

Our Cascara Sagrada is produced and tested to meet stringent quality standards suitable for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical use. Quality is assured through identity confirmation via TLC/HPLC fingerprinting and quantification of key marker compounds (e.g., cascarosides, total hydroxyanthracene derivatives). We support compliance with relevant pharmacopoeial standards (such as USP-NF or Ph. Eur. monographs where applicable). A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing purity, assay, and contaminant testing (heavy metals, microbial limits, pesticides) is provided with each batch.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry place at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). This material is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); ensure the container is sealed after each use to prevent absorption of atmospheric moisture, which can affect stability and potency.

Specification

Item	Specification
Description	Fine powder or extract; Color: Light tan to brown
Identification (TLC/HPLC)	Conforms to standard fingerprint
Assay (Total Hydroxyanthracene Derivatives)	Typically 8-12% (or as per customer requirement)
Loss on Drying	≤ 10.0 %
Ash	≤ 6.0 %
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 20 ppm
Microbial Limits	Meets Ph. Eur./USP criteria for botanical substances
Residual Solvents	Meets ICH guidelines (if applicable)

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.