Chinese Rhubarb (Canton Rhubarb, Shensi Rhubarb)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Rheum officinalis, R. palmatum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Aloe-emodin
Anthraquinone
Chrysophanol
Emodin
Tannins (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Shrinks tissues. Prevents secretion of fluids. Irritates mucous membranes of intestinal tract. Interferes with absorption of iron and other minerals when taken internally.

Miscellaneous information:
This is NOT the garden variety of rhubarb.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Relieves diarrhea (in small amounts).

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Avoid overeating this herb.

Breast-feeding:
Avoid overeating this herb.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS