Cascaroside A is an anthraquinone glycoside naturally present in the bark of cascara (Rhamnus purshiana), a plant traditionally used for its laxative properties. In the nutraceutical and phytotherapeutic sectors, this molecule plays a key role as a biomarker for cascara extracts, as it allows for the evaluation of the potency, safety, and regulatory compliance of herbal products. Controlling its concentration is essential for standardizing plant ingredients, meeting quality requirements, and ensuring safe use in dietary supplements containing anthraquinone derivatives.
Analytical methods
Cascaroside A analysis relies primarily on liquid chromatography (HPLC or UPLC), combined with UV detection or mass spectrometry (LC-MS). HPLC provides robust, reproducible quantification suitable for routine quality control. LC-MS offers high resolution and enhanced selectivity, particularly useful for distinguishing cascaroside A from other anthraquinone glycosides present in cascara extracts. These techniques enable reliable detection, even at low concentrations, and ensure accurate analysis in a variety of matrices.
Analyzed matrices
This assay is compatible with a wide range of matrices encountered in the plant and nutraceutical industries, including plant powders, dry extracts, pharmaceutical dosage forms, hydroalcoholic solutions, and finished products containing cascara. The analysis verifies batch conformity, assesses ingredient stability, and ensures their safe use in formulations intended for the European and international markets.
Interest for professionals
In the nutraceutical industry, cascaroside A analysis is an essential tool for standardizing cascara extracts to a defined target level. It contributes to the validation of raw materials, the control of extraction processes, the qualification of suppliers, and the optimization of final formulations. For manufacturers of herbal products, this measurement facilitates compliance with regulatory thresholds for anthraquinone derivatives, which are regularly monitored to ensure safe use. Distributors, research firms, and practitioners of phytotherapy find it a reliable way to document the analytical conformity of their products.
YesWeLab Expertise
YesWeLab works with a specialized network of laboratories recognized for their expertise in physicochemical plant analysis, most of which are certified or accredited according to ISO 17025 or COFRAC standards. Laboratories are selected based on the required technique, the expected level of sensitivity, and the specific constraints of the matrix. Through our platform, you benefit from comprehensive support: selection of the appropriate laboratory, operational management of samples, monitoring of deadlines, and interpretation of results. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers and distributors have entrusted us with their analyses to guarantee the quality, safety, and compliance of their plant products.
Other relevant analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue
To complement the cascaroside A assay, the following tests may be useful depending on your objectives:
