The copalquin (Rhamnus purshiana) is one of the common names given to a tree native to western North America. The tree is 4.5 to 10 meters tall and its trunk is 20 to 50 centimeters in diameter. The species is probably better known as cascara sagrada, due to the properties of its dry bark.
The bark must have aged for a year before being used properly. In this there are chemical substances that exert laxative action, stimulating peristalsis in the colon. Freshly cut, the bark has higher levels of the active ingredients, which can cause severe bloody diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
These active ingredients are hydroxyanthracene glycosides. These substances are not easily absorbed in the small intestine, but are hydrolyzed by the intestinal flora. They inhibit the absorption of water and electrolytes in the large intestine and allow the increase in the volume of the content of its contents.
When excreted by the kidneys, some of the chemical components present in the cortex cause a change in the color of the urine. The fruit is also edible raw or cooked and in the same way has a laxative effect.
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The dry and aged bark of R. purshiana has been used as a natural laxative medicine for many years by the people of the Pacific Northwest and North America.
The naturally derived glycosides of anthraquinone that explain this property are also found in the leaves and fruits of plants such as senna, rhubarb root and aloe latex..
It is used as a laxative in elderly and pediatric patients. Once ingested, the peel begins to work in the colon within six to ten hours..
The active principles of copalquín stimulate the lining of the colon mucosa, producing an active secretion of electrolytes and water..
Therefore, the intestinal content is increased, exerting dilation pressure on the colon; in turn, the pressure stimulates the movement of the stool.
It can be used as a form of natural bowel preparation for colonoscopies or other procedures, such as intestinal exams, as a substitute for other laxatives.
The laxative properties of copalquín soften the stool, facilitating its passage through the colon. As a result, it is effective in reducing the need to strain the intestine and thus decreases the manifestation of hemorrhoids..
One of the most widely used uses for copalquin is for skin and hair care. Its anti-aging, moisturizing and juvenile acne treatment properties have been recognized. On the hair, it prevents hair loss and strengthens it.
- The tree is ornamental.
- Provides food and habitat for wildlife and prevents soil erosion.
- Due to its bitter taste, the peel can be applied to the nails to prevent the bad habit of biting.
- Peel extract is sometimes used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages.
- It has also been used in the manufacture of sunscreens.
- There are ailments for which its use has been reported although there is not enough evidence of these effects. These include the fragmentation of gallstones and the prevention of their formation; liver problems, such as hepatomegaly or an enlarged liver; and also as a chemotherapy enhancer.
The dose should be low initially and gradually increased as needed. The shell must be aged for at least one year; if not, it should be dried in an oven at about 250 ˚F (about 121 ˚C).
To combat constipation or gallstones, you can make a decoction of the bark. To do this, mix four teaspoons of dry bark with one liter of boiling water. The solution is allowed to stand for an hour to ensure that the dissolution is complete..
Drink from ½ cup to 1 cup, 2 to 3 times a day, not to exceed two cups per day. This preparation is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, allowing the herb to act quickly..
Tinctures can be used in place of the decoction. The recommended dose is 15 to 30 drops to replace each cup of solution. Always be careful to use the lowest effective dose.
Because it is a very bitter herb, honey or sugar can be added to the decoction to make it more palatable. Flavorings such as anise can be added to further counteract the unpleasant taste.
It is necessary to ingest large amounts of water with each dose of copalquin. If it comes in capsule form, the manufacturer's instructions should be followed. If it is the liquid extract, take approximately one teaspoon in each dose, 2 to 3 times a day if necessary..
- It is not recommended for use if you are taking medications to treat congestive heart failure (CHF) and heart rhythm disturbances (atrial arrhythmias)..
- Nor is its consumption desirable if diuretics are ingested. Copalquín can potentiate the effects of these drugs and possibly lead to potassium deficiency. In those cases, you should consult with the treating doctor before taking it..
- It is contraindicated when being treated for disorders that cause inflammation with medications such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisone, and others. These medications can lower your body's potassium levels..
- Due to its laxative properties, it should not be used by people suffering from Crohn's disease, as well as by individuals with intestinal obstructions or lesions, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, hemorrhoids, appendicitis or kidney problems..
- The effects of warfarin may be increased if copalquin is taken simultaneously, causing an increased risk of bleeding..
- Active compounds can be transferred to the baby through breast milk. Therefore, lactating women should not ingest it..
- Induction of labor is another of the effects that can have if it is taken during pregnancy.
- Diarrhea, one of the possible side effects of copalquin, is a common cause of electrolyte imbalance. Excessive use of this product can lead to a loss of minerals and salts such as potassium and sodium..
- Diarrhea can lead to dehydration leading to weakness, blurred vision, confusion and, in severe cases, fainting, kidney failure, and even death..
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