Rhubarb Root, cultivated in China and Tibet, has an illustrious history of inclusion in many laxative preparations. It is generally considered a mild laxative that produces a soft stool six to ten hours after ingestion.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
"Rhubarb" is the common name of the root of several different species of Rheum, growing in the mountains of the Western and Northwestern provinces of China and in the adjoining Tibetan territory. This plant is found native in India. It also grows in the Himalayas (above 8,000 to 13,000 feet), and is found in Russia and Turkey. The parts of the plant used medicinally include both the root and the rhizome. The genus name, Rheum, is believed to come from the Greek word, rheo, meaning "to flow" in reference to the purgative properties of Rhubarb. The common name, Rhubarb, is said to be derived from the Latin rha barbrum, referring to the Rha River (an ancient name for the Volga River) that was once inhabited by barbarians (anyone not Roman). Rhubarb Root has a purgative action for use in the treatment of constipation but also has an astringent effect too. It, therefore, has a truly cleansing action upon the gut, removing debris and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well. The primary chemical constituents of Rhubarb include anthraquinones, chrysophanol, emodin, physcion, sennidine, rheidine, palmmidine, tannins, catechin, gallic acid, oxalic acid, rutin, phytosterol and calcium oxalate. It is the anthraquinones that contribute to the laxative and purgative properties of Rhubarb, yet the tannin content helps balance those properties, and even stops diarrhea. Chinese research is investigating Rhubarb's ability to possibly inhibit malignant cells. The A-factors (anthraquinones) of this herb differ somewhat from those of Cascara Sagrada - only some of them reach the large intestines intact, while others are reabsorbed in the small intestine, and later released into the large intestine. The timing of the absorption of Rhubarb is thus displaced to some degree from other popular laxative agents, thereby promoting longer and smoother activity of the whole. It also acts as an aperient and astringent, but only in small doses. In large amounts, Rhubarb Root is used for relief from constipation, whereas small amounts of the herb are used for diarrhea. It is also used to treat internal pinworms and threadworms. This herb has also been used topically as a poultice or compress for boils, burns, carbuncles and wounds, and as a mouthwash for cold sores. Juice from the fresh root is even used to polish brass due to its natural acidic content.
Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.
Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should not use Rhubarb Root, nor should it be used by those who suffer from colitis or have intestinal obstruction. Long-term use is not recommended, as it may cause dependence and tendency toward chronic constipation, nor should it be taken when the colon is already empty (do not take Rhubarb longer than eight to ten days). People with a history of renal stones or urinary problems should avoid Rhubarb Root (and any herbs with oxalates). Never eat or cook Rhubarb leaves as a food. Oxalates are contained in all parts of Rhubarb plants, especially in the green leaves, and are considered extremely toxic. There is some evidence that anthraquinone glycosides (the active purgative ingredient) are also present and may be partly responsible. The stalks and roots contain low levels of oxalates, so this does not cause problems. Do not take Rhubarb without talking to your doctor first if you are taking blood thinning medicine: examples: warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), aspirin, enoxaparin (Lovenox), dalteparin (Fragmin) or blood disease medication (Sulfinpyrazone). Children under twelve years of age should never take Rhubarb, except under the direct supervision of your family physician. Using Rhubarb Root may temporarily cause the urine to appear yellow or red, but this is a common occurrence and no cause for alarm.
Capsule Information:
Our Rhubarb supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs. |
