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Rhubarb
(Rheum palmatum)
DESCRIPTION
A native plant of China and Tibet, rhubarb is often grown
in other parts of the world for ornamental purposes. Rhubarb
has a history of use as a component in laxative preparations.
HERBAL USES
Rhubarb is primarily known for its treatment
of Constipation. It has also been found to be beneficial for
liver, spleen, and gallbladder problems. It also possesses
antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and hypotensive properties.
SUGGESTED INTAKES
Part of the plant used: ROOTSTOCK.
20-30 mg calculated as rhein for no more
than 2 weeks without medical consultation.
SUPPLEMENTAL USES
Constipation:
Rhubarb is generally known to be effective 6-10 hours after
ingestion. Antraquinones in rhubarb stimulate mucus secretion
through the large intestinal wall as well as bowel movements.
Rhubarb is suitable for use in children due to its very mild
action. It may be used year-round for chronic Constipation,
but only when necessary. The herb is usually combined with
other laxatives, such as Cascara Sagrada, butternut, and buckthorn.
Upper digestive tract bleeding:
Rhubarb has been used to stop bleeding for over 1700 years.
In a recent study, patients with upper digestive tract bleeding
were given rhubarb supplements, 3 g two to four times a day
until stool showed no more signs of blood. Of the 400 cases,
97% showed complete absence of blood in the stool in an average
of 1.5 days (1).
Antibiotic effects:
Rhubarb has been shown to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus (2).
Rhubarb has also been shown to be effective
on Gallstones, jaundice, and Haemorrhoids.
SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS
Rhubarb may cause rebound Constipation.
With proper use, this is not a concern. Avoid use for over
two weeks without medical consultation (3).
Rhubarb leaf should be avoided completely
as it is highly toxic.
INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Rhubarb will potentiate other laxatives,
cathartics, and purgatives. It may enhance anticoagulant drugs
by reducing Vitamin K absorption. Rhubarb may also inhibit
absorption of dextrose, isoniazid, and digitalis glycosides.
Rhubarb may also interact with cardiac glycosides
and antiarrhythmia drugs.
Rhubarb increases the passage
time of all oral medications through the intestines, thereby
inhibiting their action.
REFERENCES
1. Jaio., et. Al. Resume of 400 cases
of acute upper digestive tract bleeding treated with rhubarb
alone. Pharmacology, 20 (Suppl. 1), 128-130, 1980.
2. Chen, C.H., T.T. Li, H.L. Su & C.I. Wang. Chinese rhubarb.
Vii. Mechanisms of antibiotic action of antraquinone derivatives.
Effects on the respiration of staphylococcus aureus. Sheng
Wu Hua Hsueh Yu Shen Wu Wu Li-sueh Pao 3(4), 426-433, 1963.
3. Blumental, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs:
Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical
Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
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