Background: In use for over four millennia, Rheum palmatum originated in northwest China and Tibet. Its cultivation and use were pervasive throughout India. It was established in Europe during the Renaissance period, proceeding into Asia Minor. It became a favored remedy of physicians in Persia and Arabia. It was used in treating cholera.
As European settlers to America continued westward, to ensure their survival they included the highly valued Turkey rhubarb rootstock among their limited supplies.
Purgative with astringent and antiseptic attributes useful in relieving constipation and assisting bowel function. May impart a harmless yellow-red tint to urine. Beneficial in removing viscid mucus from mucous membranes, including those of liver and gall bladder ducts. Used to treat jaundice.
Beneficial to colon, spleen, and liver. Relieves headache and skin inflammations. With limited application it is used to treat hemorrhoids.
Used for tonification of bowels. Affective in treating diarrhea, dysentery, and dyspeptic conditions of all types, and for healing duodenal ulcers. It has been included in treatment of nervous conditions including irritability, restlessness, and convulsive muscular contractions.
Description:
This species of rhubarb, native to Tibet and China, is a perennial herb resembling common garden rhubarb. Conical rootstock is fleshy and yellow inside. Large, cordate, almost orbicular, 7-lobed leaves grow on thick petioles 12-18 in. in length. The hollow flower stem, growing to 5-10 ft, bears a leafy panicle of greenish or whitish flowers.
Dosage:
Extract: Soak root in cold water 8-10 hours.
As laxative: 1 tbsp. 2-3 x per day. To increase appetite: 1 tsp. 2-3 x per day. Taken before meals.
Decoction: l/2 - l tsp. root to 1 c. water. Bring to boil, simmer on low for l5 min. Strain. Take at morning and evening.
Astringent for diarrhea: 1/4 tsp. root to 1/2 c. water. 1/2 c. per day.
Safety:
Use only as recommended.
The leaf blades (not the stalk, or root) contain oxalic acid in quantity sufficient to cause poisoning, even fatality. Continuous, prolonged use is not advisable.
Pregnant and nursing women are cautioned against its use. Also avoid when gout or arthritis are present.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
MBSC offers Herb
Become a Fan of