The Critical Distinction: Cascara Coffee Fruit vs. Cascara Sagrada
One of the most important things to understand when discussing the benefits of cascara is that the term refers to two completely different plant products. The first, and increasingly popular, is cascara derived from the dried fruit skin of the coffee cherry. The second is cascara sagrada, a medicinal bark with powerful laxative effects. Misunderstanding this distinction can have significant health consequences, as one is a safe, antioxidant-rich beverage while the other is a potent herbal medicine intended for short-term use only.
Health Benefits of Cascara (Coffee Cherry Tea)
Cascara tea, made from the dried skins of coffee cherries, is gaining popularity as a low-caffeine, flavourful beverage with notable health-promoting compounds.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cascara is packed with antioxidants, including polyphenols and hydrocinnamic acids. These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body, which contributes to the development of chronic diseases. Some claims suggest it contains more antioxidants than cranberries, though nutritional data can vary. A study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity highlights the protective effects of diets rich in plant polyphenols. The antioxidant activity and phenolic content of cascara can vary by region, variety, and processing method.
- Supports Brain Health: Research has indicated that certain compounds in coffee fruit, including polyphenols, may support brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein essential for maintaining healthy cognition, memory function, and overall brain health.
- Low Caffeine Energy Boost: Compared to a regular cup of coffee, cascara tea contains significantly less caffeine—often around a quarter of the amount. This offers a mild, sustained energy boost without the jitters or crash associated with high-caffeine beverages.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: The abundant polyphenols in cascara are also credited with anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for many diseases, so consuming anti-inflammatory compounds can contribute to overall wellness.
Health Benefits and Risks of Cascara Sagrada (Herbal Laxative Bark)
Cascara sagrada, meaning “sacred bark,” has a long history of use as a powerful stimulant laxative. It is crucial to understand its function and exercise caution when using it.
- Constipation Relief: The primary and most well-documented benefit of cascara sagrada is its ability to relieve occasional constipation. It contains anthraquinone glycosides that stimulate muscle contractions in the large intestine and increase fluid in the bowel, promoting a bowel movement typically within 6 to 8 hours.
- Not for Long-Term Use: The most significant caution with cascara sagrada is that it should only be used for short-term relief, typically less than one week. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to serious side effects, including:
- Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
- Loss of normal bowel function and dependency.
- Liver toxicity, especially with long-term, high-dose usage.
- FDA Status: In 2002, the FDA removed its approval for cascara sagrada in over-the-counter laxatives due to safety concerns and a lack of evidence by modern standards. It is still available as a dietary supplement, which is not regulated with the same stringency as an OTC drug.
Comparison of Cascara Types
To highlight the key differences, this table compares the two distinct types of cascara.
| Feature | Cascara (Coffee Cherry) | Cascara Sagrada (Tree Bark) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Dried fruit skin of the coffee cherry | Dried and aged bark of the Frangula purshiana tree |
| Primary Benefit | Antioxidant intake, mild energy boost, anti-inflammatory support | Short-term constipation relief |
| Taste Profile | Fruity, sweet, notes of cherry, raisin, hibiscus | Bitter bark, often needs aging to mellow |
| Caffeine Content | Low, around a quarter of a cup of coffee | None (contains anthraquinones) |
| Safety Profile | Generally considered safe, no reported severe side effects at typical consumption levels | Risk of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, dependency, and liver toxicity with improper use |
| FDA Status | Not regulated as a drug, available as a food product | Removed from FDA OTC laxative approval due to safety concerns |
How to Prepare and Consume Cascara Tea
For those interested in the antioxidant benefits of coffee fruit cascara, preparing the tea is simple. The general method involves steeping the dried husks in hot water, similar to brewing regular tea.
- Ratio: Use a ratio of about 25g of water for every 1g of cascara. A standard starting point is about 15g of dried cascara per 300ml of hot water.
- Steeping: Heat water to just off the boil and pour it over the cascara husks. Let it steep for 8-10 minutes.
- Serving: Strain the liquid to remove the husks. The tea can be enjoyed hot or poured over ice for a refreshing cold brew. You can also add cinnamon, ginger, or a slice of lemon for extra flavour.
Conclusion: Make an Informed Choice
The term cascara encompasses two products with vastly different applications and safety profiles. Cascara from the coffee cherry offers a mild, low-caffeine, antioxidant-rich beverage for wellness enthusiasts. In contrast, cascara sagrada from tree bark is a potent stimulant laxative with serious risks if not used correctly and for a limited duration. Before consuming any cascara product, it is essential to identify its source. For those seeking digestive relief, consulting a healthcare provider is the safest approach, while those interested in antioxidant benefits can enjoy coffee fruit cascara as a delicious tea. An informed choice ensures you reap the desired benefits without unintended consequences.
For Further Reading
For more information on the beneficial phenolic compounds found in cascara, refer to the scientific evaluation published in ScienceDirect on their antioxidant activity.
Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal supplements, especially cascara sagrada, or if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
