Several species. Medicinal Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb (polygonaceae, called Da huang in Chinese) and Rheum tanguticum have comparable effects - they are more effective than other rhubarbs. Garden rhubarb is called Rheum rhabarbarum in Latin, and its stem is used for cooking. Both stem and root have a medicinal effect.
Medicinal rhubarb has been used for several hundred years in Chinese medicine.
Rheum officinale (radix/root) is not eaten for its flavour but because it improves digestion, and it is used for intestinal disturbances and spleen or liver problems. Relieves headache, diarrhoea, constipation and haemorrhoids. Expells intestinal worms. Induces healing of wounds and strengthens the gall bladder function.
Both root and stem of all the most effective species either have a laxative or a constipating effect depending on the amount taken, since rhubarb contains antrachinon, known from senna, a frequently used laxative, and tannins which have a constipating effect.
A strong laxative effect is achieved by taking 2-5. g of the root. A milder laxative effect is achieved by 1-2 g. and a slight effect by 0.3 g.
A tasty and effective laxative: 3 rhubarb stems (without leaves) are pulped and mixed with 1 dl. of apple juice, 1 tbsp. honey, and the flesh from a quarter of a lemon.
Rhubarb is also used for blood accumulation caused by traumatic shock, absent menstruation, and pressure behind the eyes caused by hepatitis.
Extract of rhubarb root has proved effective against the bacterium staphylococcus aureus, which can cause mouth ulcers and make hair follicles to become infected with boils.
Rhubarb tincture is also used as a mouth wash and increases appetite.
Rhubarb root can be taken as tablets to avoid the taste.
Notice
Must not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, nor in patients with rheumatism, heavy menstruational bleedings, or kidney stones.
