Techniques for Assessing the Toxicity and Effects of Consumption of Cascara-Sagrada (Rhamnus Purshiana): an Integrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: An alternative for the treatment of a wide variety of diseases are medicinal plants and herbal medicines. Objective: to analyze, in the national and international literature, the techniques for evaluating the toxicity and the effects of the consumption of Cascara-sacred (Rhamnus Purshiana). Methodology: this was a review research carried out in LILACS databases; SciELO; PUBMED; web of science and SCOPUS, between January 2015 and August 2021. Six articles were selected to compose the study. Results: The techniques to assess the toxicity of high-performance cascara sagrada are through spirometry and chromatography machines, as they are able to isolate their marker compounds from materials. To avoid toxicity, studies recommend its use for a period of less than four weeks. Thus, for the safe and intoxication-free consumption of Cáscara sagrada. it is important to carry out evaluations of the relationships between anthraquinone compounds, since they are responsible for the toxic effects found in extracts. In this follow-up, one of the studies evaluated stated that using glycosylated forms, such as cascarosides, is worthwhile, since they avoid direct contact of cells with active forms during intestinal transport. In addition, absorption is avoided leading to the need for fewer doses. Conclusion: Therefore, the enrichment of cascarosides in cascara extract and its use for a period of less than four weeks is recommended to avoid possible liver poisoning.