Rhubarb, Young Plant
(also referred to as...)
Turkey Rhubarb, Russian Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb
Latin Name: Rheum officianale
Family: Polygonaceae
Description
Originally, this plant is native to northwest China and Tibet from where it reached Europe in the time of the Renaissance. It is here that the different species got their names (Russian, Turkey, East-Indian, Chinese) according to how they reached the continent, not where they had been cultivated. Rhubarb has long since served as food and medicine.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Rhubarb has been used for hundreds of years as a remedy for stomach aches and constipation. This plant is a very strong purgative and should be used with discretion. In smaller doses, it helps diarrhea, dysentery, digestive weakness, and helps tone the stomach and the intestines. The root can be chewed to stimulate salivation, increase gastric juices, and benefit digestion. It is used as a treatment for disorders of the liver, gallbladder, and stomach.
Rhubarb helps promote blood circulation in the pelvic region and can help bring relief during a painful menstruation. Rhubarb is also used to eliminate intestinal worms, treat diverticulosis, gastro-enteritis, and toxic conditions of the blood.
NOTE: Rhubarb should always be given with a carminative plant such as clove, peppermint, or ginger to avoid griping (cramping of the bowel) pains. Externally, it makes a good antibacterial and astringent agent.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, rhubarb is used similarly to purge and as a liver cleanser. Used to clear heat (toxins) form the liver, stomach, and blood. It helps remove stagnant and undigested food from the alimentary canal.
Rhubarb is an ancient Sanskrit remedy named "soma", used for courage, wisdom, and longevity.
Source
Root and stalks.
Preparations
Infusion: Infuse 1 cup rhubarb root with 1/2 teaspoon carminative in 1 1/2 cups water and take 3 times daily. Use smaller doses as a tonic.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Avoid in pregnancy as it is too strong a purgative.
Avoid in intestinal obstruction.
Avoid in arthritic conditions and gout as it contains oxalates.
Leaves are toxic. Use stalks only.
Ailment / Situation Listing
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website. However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
when applying the information contained on this website.
The MBR Team is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or related effects from applying the information contained on this website.
By browsing / printing any and all My Best Remedies articles / pages, you agree to the statements above.
