Rhubarb Herb

Other names: Chinese rhubarb, Himalayan rhubarb, Rhizome, garden rhubarb and so on

Useful parts of the plant: The large root and stalks. The leaves are known to be poisonous

The rhubarb root is basically an herb that is in the form of a large root. This herb was initially imported from China. In the U.S. it is known to be a vegetable that is widely consumed. The herb grows well in temperate climates and was first in use in China. However, today it is grown in almost all parts of the world. The herb was introduced in America in the late1820's and slowly came to be widely used. In order to catch up with the demand, the herb is also known to be forcibly grown throughout the year using different methods.

Nutritional Information and Properties

The nutritional properties of the herb makes it very one of the very useful herbs in the world today. The herb is rich in carbohydrates, Vitamins as also minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium and iron. The herb is known for its low fat content and can therefore be used without any major worries.

Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses

One of the medicinal benefits of the rhubarb roots is that on account of the presence of two major purgative constituents, this herb is known to be very beneficial in the treatment of diarrhea. The rhubarb root when consumed tends to increase the contractions of the colon and also helps in the cleansing of the colon. The purgative constituents of the Chinese rhubarb are also effective in getting rid of any bacteria that may be causing the diarrhea.

Another one of the benefits of the rhubarb root is that it is promotes weight loss on account of the effect it has on the digestive system as well as the colon. The rhubarb root is responsible for helping in processing the food that is consumed so that it is eliminated from the body in the proper manner. Additionally, the intestinal action of the rhubarb root also hampers the absorption of fat which would have otherwise accumulated in the body cells.
The Chinese rhubarb is also used as part of the home treatment to treat ailments such as indigestion, menstrual disorders, traumatic injuries, conjunctivitis and indigestion.
The rhubarb root is also beneficial in treating scabs, sores and burns. On account of the astringent properties of the rhubarb root this herb is also used to stop bleeding in cases of minor wounds or injuries.
Another one of the health benefits of the rhubarb root is that it is known to help in slowing down renal failure
Similarly those individuals who suffer from GI bleeding are also recommended the use of the rhubarb herb as it tends to decrease loss of blood, minimizes the need of a clotting agent, controls bleeding and also helps in the elimination of any extravagated bleeding.
Another one of the medicinal uses of the Chinese rhubarb is that the stalk fiber that is obtained is known to help in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol.
Rhubarb is also recommended for women to gain relief from the pains and symptoms of menstruation such as cramping and abdominal pain.
Additionally the rhubarb herb is also beneficial against loss of electrolytes, vomiting and nausea, uterine contractions or even a burning sensation in the throat and mouth.

Besides the health and therapeutic uses the pistioles of the rhubarb plant are also used to prepare rhubarb pie that is known to be both healthy and tasty.

Precautions/ Side Effects/ Warnings

However along with the medicinal benefits of the rhubarb herb, there are also certain potential side effects that one should be aware of such as the prolonged use of the rhubarb herb is known to result in cirrhosis of the liver, laxative dependency , vertigo and so on. Similarly, individuals who suffer from colitis, Crohns disease, intestinal obstructions and similar other diseases should strictly avoid the consumption of the rhubarb herb. The rhubarb root is also not recommended to be consumed by children who are below the age of 12 years as well as nursing or pregnant women. Thus like any other herb or natural treatment , it is always advisable to consult the doctor first and also intimate them if you are under any other medication so as to ensure that there is no adverse effects of combining the herb and the prescribed medication.