Rhubarb
General Information

Rheum officinale Baillon, Rheum palmatumL., and Rheum rhabarbarum L. (Rhubarb)

Family Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family).

Traditional use Purgative; laxative

Part used Stem (the leaves are toxic)

Preparation Desserts

Research

Rhubarb has been studied for the management of gastrointestinal (GI) and renal disorders, and for the treatment of hyperlipidemia and cancer. There is insufficient clinical evidence for its use. A recent study looked at the efficacy of the compound rhein in protecting the blood-brain barrier after traumatic brain injury

Contraindications
Cardiac glycosides


Active compound(s)

Malic acid; oxalic acid*; rhein.


*toxic