Turkey rhubarb is an Asian variety of rhubarb also commonly referred to as Chinese rhubarb, Indian Rhubarb, and, in China, as da huang. Like other varieties of rhubarb, the large, leafy greens of the plant are avoided because they contain high levels of oxalic acid. Turkey rhubarb root, however, which contains several antioxidant compounds, is used to produce liquid tinctures and extracts. Powdered turkey rhubarb is taken in capsule form or is used to make topical poultices to address minor skin irritations. Turkey rhubarb root can also be used to flavor tea, as turkey rhubarb tea is extremely beneficial for the digestive system.
description Rheum palmatum is a member of the Polygonaceae family. The plant can grow a jointed stalk as high in stature as six to ten feet. The stalk will produce loosely branched clusters of flowers along the tips. They will bloom yellow or white and mature into a red color. The plant's jagged, hand-shaped leaves are rather large, growing in width of at least two to three feet.
The plant flowers from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to September.
common names & nomenclature The plant's common name rhubarb comes from the old French reubarbe, from a shortening of medieval Latin rheubarbarum, an alteration of rhabarbarum which means "foreign rhubarb," from Greek rha, which also means "rhubarb" + barbaros meaning "foreign."
Also known as: chinese rhubarb, turkey rhubarb, indian rhubarb, da-huang, ta-huang, amla-vetasa
climate Turkey rhubarb grows in scrub and rocky places and by streams in sun to part sun. Also found in western and northern China on slopes and valleys at elevations of 1500 to 4400 meters.
soil Prefers a deep, fertile, moderately heavy, humus rich, moisture retentive, well-drained soil.
growing Divide turkey rhubarb plants in early spring or autumn. The rootstock can be divided up using a sharp spade or knife. When cutting, make sure that there is at least one growth bud on each division. Larger divisions can be planted out directly into their permanent locations. Turkey rhubarb can also be grown by seed.
harvesting Turkey rhubarb roots are harvested in October. Plants should be at least six years old, once harvested they are then dried for later use.
preserving Store dried turkey rhubarb root pieces and powdered turkey rhubarb root in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Rheum Palmatum is native to the regions of western China, northern Tibet, and the Mongolian Plateau.
Formulas & recipes Turkey rhubarb uses Turkey rhubarb is different from the rhubarb most Americans think of. It is the Asian relative to the spring vegetable Americans might put in a pie. Though they are distinctly different in taste and use, turkey rhubarb contains the same potentially toxic ingredient, oxalic acid, as garden rhubarb variety. The toxicity is contained in the leaves of the plant, while the root has been harvested for over 4,000 years and is safe to ingest. The root, in powder or dried herb form, can be made into tea or tinctures. The root is also sometimes used for rustic decor, with its wood-like appearance.
Turkey rhubarb tea -Put 1 tablespoon of turkey rhubarb herb into a tea bag -Pour boiled water over tea bag in your mug of choice -Let the tea steep for 7-8 minutes -Enjoy with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Health benefits Turkey rhubarb benefits With turkey rhubarb’s fiber content, the herb is mostly used to fight bowel irregularity and constipation. It can also help with stomach aches, heartburn, lowering fevers, lowering blood pressure, and more. Turkey rhubarb formula is a way some people regulate their digestive tract over long periods of time as it tends to be a more gentle and natural treatment than other colon-regulating formulas.
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.
