Rheum palmatum

 

Rheum palmatum [Image]. [2014]. Retrieved from: http://www.dkimages.com/discover/Home/Plants/Ornamental-Groups/Perennials/Polygonales/Polygonaceae/Rheum/Rheum-palmatum/Rheum-palmatum-Bowles-Crimson/Rheum-palmatum-Bowles-Cr-1.html

Common name: 
Rhubarb Root
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).
 

Latin binomial:
Rheum palmatum
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

Family: 
Polygonaceae 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222). 

Parts used:
Rhizome  
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

Active constituents:

• Anthraquinones
• Tannins
• Bitter aromatic principles

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

Actions:

• Bitter stomachic
•  Mild purgative
• Astringent 

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

 

Indications:

• Useful in the treatment of constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this
• Truly cleansing action on the gut
• Will remove debris from the gut and use its antiseptic actions on it too 

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

Dosage:

• Decoction: half to one teaspoon full of the root in a cup of water bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. This should be drunk morning and evening.
• Tincture: take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day 

(Hoffman, 2002, p. 228).
 

Combinations: 
It combines well with carminatives to relief any griping that may occur  
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 222).

References:
 

Hoffman, D. (1983) The holistic herbal. Element books: Dorset.