Rhubarb Root Extract
Also known as: Rheum officinale, Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb, Garden Rhubarb, Rheum rhaponticum
Overview
Rhubarb is a perennial plant whose root and rhizome are commonly used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia. Its primary uses include treatment for chronic renal failure, menopausal symptoms, and various gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and indigestion. Key phytochemicals include anthraquinones (e.g., rhein, emodin) and stilbenes (e.g., rhapontigenin), contributing to its therapeutic properties. Despite moderate research maturity, evidence supporting its efficacy varies in quality, with systematic reviews indicating positive effects, particularly for renal and menopausal conditions. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Benefits
Rhubarb offers several evidence-based benefits: it is shown to reduce serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in chronic renal failure, with a notable meta-analysis indicating a significant reduction in serum creatinine (MD = 123.57, 95% CI: 111.59, 131.96). It also improves menopausal symptoms, as shown by a systematic review revealing a reduction in Menopause Rating Scale scores (MD: -15.12, p < 0.001). Secondary benefits include the improvement of lipid profiles in hypercholesterolemic patients and potential gastrointestinal health benefits. These effects are particularly relevant for patients suffering from chronic renal failure and menopausal women, demonstrating clinically significant impact within weeks to months of treatment.
How it works
The therapeutic effects of rhubarb are attributed to its active phytochemicals, particularly anthraquinones, which exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds interact with various biological pathways, enhancing gastrointestinal motility and secretion, thus aiding conditions like diarrhea and improving renal function by reducing creatinine levels. Rhubarb’s action on the renal system leads to increased creatinine clearance, while its antioxidant activity helps mitigate inflammatory responses in the body.
Side effects
Rhubarb is generally safe when used wisely; however, it may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, abdominal pain), particularly at higher doses. Allergic reactions (skin rashes) might occur in some cases, while severe gastrointestinal symptoms and rare drug interactions can arise. Patients taking blood thinners, diabetes medications, or those with kidney and liver issues should exercise caution, as rhubarb can affect these organs. Contraindications include pregnancy and severe liver disease. Due to the potential for adverse effects and interactions, it is advisable for individuals with specific health conditions to seek medical advice before use.
Dosage
The optimal dose of rhubarb varies by application, with a minimum effective dose of 9 g of crude rhubarb extract for chronic renal failure noted in studies. For managing menopausal symptoms, a standardized extract (ERr 731®) at 4 mg daily has shown effectiveness. While no maximum safe dose is defined, high doses above 20 g/day may increase gastrointestinal risks. Rhubarb can be administered in various forms, including powders and extracts, and its absorption may be enhanced by using acidic solvents. It's suggested to consult healthcare professionals for personalized dosing based on specific health needs.
FAQs
Is rhubarb safe to use?
Rhubarb is generally safe when taken correctly, but those with kidney or liver issues should use it under medical supervision.
How should rhubarb be taken?
Rhubarb can be taken orally or in enema form, depending on the condition being treated. It's best to consult a healthcare provider.
When can I expect results from rhubarb?
Improvements in renal function, menopausal symptoms, and gastrointestinal health can generally be expected within weeks to months.
Are there misconceptions about rhubarb?
Yes, rhubarb is not a universal remedy; it should be used based on documented indications and not for prolonged periods without medical guidance.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1108861/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that rhubarb significantly reduces serum creatinine, BUN, and uric acid levels in chronic renal failure patients. It indicates impressive results with enough evidence to warrant further high-quality studies.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1364460/full – Another systematic review defines the positive effects of rhubarb on menopausal symptoms, showing a significant reduction in Menopause Rating Scale scores and highlighting the efficacy of the standardized extract ERr 731®.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/rhubarb.html – Clinical trials summarized here indicate that rhubarb extract enhances lipid profiles and gastrointestinal health in various studies, though limitations in design and sample sizes were noted.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38646867/ – This research elucidates the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of rhubarb's phytochemicals, essential in its therapeutic impact on kidney function and gastrointestinal motility.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-214/rhubarb – Provides an overview of rhubarb, discussing its safety, potential side effects, and health benefits, emphasizing the importance of consulting with healthcare providers for personalized advice.
Supplements Containing Rhubarb Root Extract
Colon Cleanser 1600 mg
Full Life
Triphala Laxative 690 mg
Planetary Herbals
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Essiac Tonic
Herbs Etc.
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