The dried bark of Rhamnus Purshiana.

Action and Uses: The preparations of cascara sagrada are laxative, acting mainly on the colon, and are widely used for habitual constipation. The dose can be gradually reduced without constipation following.

Fluidextractum Rhamni Purshianae.—Fluidextract Of Cascara Sagrada, U. S. P.

One hundred c.c. represent 100 gm. of the drug in approximately 40 per cent, alcohol. The presence of a bitter principle renders this preparation useful as a tonic as well as a laxative.

Dosage: 1 c.c. or 15 minims, three times daily; smaller doses should be used if efficient for laxative effect.

Fluidextractum Rhamni Purshianae Aromaticum.—Aromatic

Fluidextract of Cascara Sagrada, U. S. P.

One hundred c.c. represent 100 gm. of the drug, which has been deprived of its bitter principle and aromatized with glycyrrhiza and compound spirit of orange. This preparation is preferred as a laxative on account of its pleasant taste.

Dosage: From 0.6 to 2 c.c. or from 10 to 30 minims. The smaller dose may be given several times a day, the larger once daily at bedtime.

Extractum Rhamni Purshianae.—Extract Of Cascara Sagrada, U. S. P.

A powdered extract representing four times its weight of the drug.

Dosage: From 0.1 to 0.5 gm. or from 2 to 8 grains.