cascara (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/kæˈskɑːrə/

Meaning and Usage

Cascara refers to the dried bark of the Rhamnus purshiana tree, commonly known as the cascara sagrada. This bark is used as a laxative in herbal medicine and can also be found in various dietary supplements. The term is derived from Spanish, where cáscara means "bark" or "peel."

Cascara is often used in complementary and alternative medicine contexts. Its frequency of use is relatively moderate, and it is more commonly found in written contexts such as health articles, herbal remedy books, and supplements labeling, rather than in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences:

1. Cascara is often used as a natural remedy for constipation.

2. La cáscara se usa a menudo como un remedio natural para el estreñimiento.

3. Many health food stores sell cascara in capsule form.

4. Muchas tiendas de alimentos saludables venden cáscara en forma de cápsula.

5. Herbalists recommend cascara for its gentle laxative effects.

6. Los herbólogos recomiendan la cáscara por sus suaves efectos laxantes.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "cascara" itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions within the English language, various expressions relate to wellness and natural remedies. Below are idiomatic phrases that involve related concepts:

1. Barking up the wrong tree - This expression means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action.
2. Estás ladrando al árbol equivocado si piensas que no necesitas descansar para tu salud.

3. You're barking up the wrong tree if you think you don't need to rest for your health.

4. Cutting corners - This phrase refers to doing something in the easiest or cheapest way, often leading to subpar quality or results.

5. No deberías cortar esquinas con los remedios naturales; esto puede ser perjudicial para tu salud.

6. You shouldn't cut corners with natural remedies; this can be harmful to your health.

7. Under the weather - This means feeling ill or unwell.

8. Siento que estoy un poco fuera de forma, tal vez debería considerar un poco de cáscara.
9. I feel a bit under the weather; maybe I should consider some cascara.

Etymology

The word "cascara" originates from the Spanish term cáscara, which translates to "bark" or "shell". It entered the English language in the 19th century through the influence of herbal medicine and natural remedy practices that were becoming popularized.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Bark - Herbal laxative

Antonyms: - Constipation remedy (in the context of its use) - Laxative (as a broader category)

In summary, cascara holds a specific place in the context of herbal medicine, carrying with it both cultural significance and practical applications in health and wellness discussions.