Cascara buckthorn
Frangula purshiana
Frangula purshiana, also known as Oregon grape, is a traditional plant used primarily in North American indigenous practices. It has been utilized for treating stomach problems and endoparasites among pets in British Columbia, Canada. Scientific studies indicate that Frangula purshiana can significantly increase CYP3A4 mRNA gene expression through hPXR activation, though the clinical significance of this finding is not yet fully understood. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Frangula purshiana significantly increased CYP3A4 mRNA gene expression likely via hPXR activation in HepG2 cells.
- Frangula purshiana was used in plant-based treatments for pets in British Columbia, Canada.
- Light and electron microscopy revealed characteristic bark structures of Frangula azorica, aiding its identification.
- Frangula purshiana was used as an anthelmintic among other plants in treating endoparasites and stomach problems in pets in British Columbia, Canada.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cascara buckthorn?
Cascara buckthorn (Frangula purshiana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Cascara buckthorn?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Cascara buckthorn; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Frangula purshiana significantly increased CYP3A4 mRNA gene expression likely via hPXR activation in HepG2 cells.
How strong is the evidence for Cascara buckthorn?
The strongest finding for Cascara buckthorn carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Cascara buckthorn safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Cascara buckthorn in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Cascara buckthorn interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Cascara buckthorn in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Cascara buckthorn?
Cascara buckthorn is also known as: Каскара, cascara.
Is Cascara buckthorn a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Ethnoveterinary medicines used to treat endoparasites and stomach problems in pigs and pets in British Columbia, Canada. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Contribution of Light and Electron Microscopy to Identification of Bark from Frangula azorica, an Azorean Medicinal Plant. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Do recent research studies validate the medicinal plants used in British Columbia, Canada for pet diseases and wild animals taken into temporary care? literature abstract metadata
- T2 In vitro effects of European and Latin-American medicinal plants in CYP3A4 gene expression, glutathione levels, and P-glycoprotein activity. literature abstract metadata