Rhubarb Root

50g (1.75oz)

Medicinal Name: Rheum palmatum

Common names: Da Huang

Properties: bitter stomachic, mild purgative, astringent, laxative, anti-inflammatory, stops bleeding, antibacterial

Treatment: constipation, diarrhea, stomach ulcer, mouth ulcer,

Description:

Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum, p. 126) is a commonly used laxative, containing anthraquinones that irritate the gut wall and stimulate bowel movement. This laxative effect, however, occurs only when large quantities of the herb are used. At lower doses other constituents, notably tannins, which dry and tighten up mucous membranes in the gut, have greater effect. As a result, Chinese rhubarb works in two apparently opposite ways depending on the dosage: as a laxative at moderate to high doses; to treat diarrhea at a lower dose.

Decoctions of the root have been shown to be effective against Staphylococcus aureus, an infectious bacterium that causes mouth ulcers and folliculitis (an acne-type infection of the beard area). In laboratory studies, rhubarb has been found to have notable activity against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach ulcers.

Preparation:

Decoction- put ½–1 tsp of the root in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer gently for 10 minutes. This should be drunk morning and evening.

Caution: Rhubarb root might turn urine red. Do not take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not take during menstruation or if prone to gout or kidney stones. Not suitable for children.