Accessibility and use of products based on cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana d.c.) by the population in Guatemala City

Abstract

Cascara sagrada is a plant widely used in medicine and phytotherapy for laxative purposes, although it is sometimes consumed too lightly as a complement to that prescribed for constipation. Anthraquinone glycosides are the main components of the plant; at low doses its effect is cholagogue and laxative, while at high doses its effect is purgative. Cascara sagrada is noted for its potent laxative properties by accelerating intestinal transit as a result of intense bowel movements. This research evaluated the accessibility and use of products based on cascara sagrada by the population that attends a chain of private pharmacies and the University Pharmacy of the University of San Carlos of Guatemala (US AC). The analysis of the work made it possible to determine the accessibility, use of cascara sagrada and the level of knowledge of users about its effects on health. To determine the accessibility of cascara sagrada in the population, an inventory of 20 registered products was made in the study, after consulting the Department of Regulation and Control of Pharmaceutical and Related Products of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance of Guatemala. A descriptive analysis and convenience sampling were used to locate products without sanitary registration, which totaled 8. The use of cascara sagrada and the level of knowledge about its effects was determined through a stratified design and a survey was applied. For this, 100 people who consume cascara sagrada were surveyed. From the data found, it was observed that 85 consumers out of 100 people surveyed are not aware of the long-term effects of using cascara sagrada and 94 do so in doses greater than 30mg. 31% of those surveyed consume cascara sagrada for more than a month, and 29% do so for 10 to 20 days. An informational brochure on cascara sagrada, its uses, and health effects was developed based on reviewed literature. This brochure will serve as a reference point for those who use cascara sagrada.