Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cascaroside is one of the active glycosides found in cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana), a plant traditionally used as a laxative. The use of cascara sagrada, and by extension cascaroside, to treat constipation—especially in children—has a long history in North American and European traditional medicine. The laxative effect is attributed to anthraquinone glycosides (including cascarosides A and B), which stimulate bowel movements by increasing intestinal motility and promoting water secretion into the colon.

However, scientific validation for the safety and efficacy of cascaroside or cascara sagrada for pediatric constipation is limited. Most studies on cascara sagrada have been conducted in adults, and even these are generally of low quality, with small sample sizes and a lack of rigorous methodology. No high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating cascaroside for childhood constipation are available. Moreover, regulatory agencies such as the FDA have removed cascara sagrada from over-the-counter laxatives due to safety concerns, including the risk of electrolyte imbalance and dependence with long-term use.

In summary, while cascaroside's use for constipation in children is rooted in traditional practice, current scientific evidence is insufficient to support its safety or efficacy for this purpose, particularly in pediatric populations. Caution is advised, and use in children is generally not recommended.

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