Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a strange plant. Its roots have many medicinal uses. Its stems make tasty pie. And its leaves are poisonous. Chinese physicians have used rhubarb root since ancient times. They prescribed it externally as a treatment for cuts and burns and internally in small amounts for dysentery. They also discovered that large amounts have powerful laxative actions and promote menstruation.

Rhubarb Uses

Strangely enough, rhubarb root has dual intestinal effects. Studies show that small amounts of rhubarb help relieve diarrhea. And, large amounts of rhubarb have powerful laxative action. Rhubarb should be used as a laxative only as a last resort to treat constipation because it’s very harsh.

Some people say that rhubarb stimulates uterine contractions lending credibility to its use as a menstrual promoter. Some women use it to try and start their periods.

Another alternative use for rhubarb has been found by Chinese researchers who reported that rhubarb root helps prevent the progression of kidney failure.

Rhubarb Recommended Dosages

For diarrhea, make a concentrate by boiling ½ teaspoon of powdered root per cup of water for 10 minutes. Take 1 tablespoon at a time periodically throughout the day up to one cup. Rhubarb has a bitter taste and is generally unpleasant. For constipation make the same type of concentrate only using 1 to 2 teaspoons of powdered root per cup of water.

Rhubarb’s Safety

Because of rhubarb’s powerful action, laxative amounts should not be used by people with chronic intestinal problems such as ulcers or colitis. Pregnant and nursing women should not use rhubarb laxatives. Also, be sure not to use the laxatives for more than two weeks. Over time it causes lazy bowel syndrome, which is the inability to have bowel movements without chemical involvement.

Rhubarb stems are used in pie fillings, but the plant’s leaves contains a poisonous acid. Ingesting the leaves can cause burning in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and other symptoms. People have died from eating the leaves of rhubarb. You may notice the color of your urine has turned bright yellow or red which is perfectly harmless.

Herbal professionals and doctors seem to be divided on rhubarb. The jury is still out. Some recommend rhubarb root for constipation, while some recommend it in small quantities for diarrhea. It’s a bit odd that the same herb can be used to create such opposite effects in the body. One would think that a larger dose of rhubarb would only exacerbate constipation.

However it works, rhubarb has proven that it makes a scrumptious pie filling, a deadly poison, and a healing herb – all in the same plant. Take this herb carefully being sure to heed the warnings and protect yourself from serious laxative effects. Make sure to speak with a doctor before taking as a laxative. There may be better methods for relieving your constipation before resorting to rhubarb root.