Sheep Sorrel Powder
Also known as: Sheep sorrel, red sorrel, sour weed, Rumex acetosella
Overview
Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, now globally distributed. Traditionally used in folk medicine for various ailments including inflammation, scurvy, and diarrhea, it is also a component of the herbal cancer remedy Essiac. The powdered form is typically derived from its dried aerial parts or roots. Key characteristics include the presence of anthraquinones, oxalates, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its traditional use as a laxative, antioxidant, and for potential cytoprotective effects. While preclinical studies suggest antioxidant and protective properties, high-quality clinical evidence for its efficacy as a single ingredient in humans is scarce, with no systematic reviews or meta-analyses available.
Benefits
Preclinical studies indicate that sheep sorrel possesses antioxidant and protective effects. In animal models, extracts have been shown to reduce liver toxicity and oxidative damage, for example, in rats exposed to carbon tetrachloride. Furthermore, phenolic extracts from sheep sorrel have demonstrated the ability to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human airway epithelial cells when exposed to dust, suggesting potential respiratory protective effects. Traditionally, it has been used for inflammation and diarrhea, which is partly supported by the presence of anthraquinones that can stimulate intestinal peristalsis. However, there are no robust clinical trials in humans to establish these benefits, and therefore, effect sizes and clinical significance remain unquantified. The strength of evidence for these benefits is currently limited to in vitro and animal studies.
How it works
Sheep sorrel's mechanism of action is primarily attributed to its active compounds. Anthraquinones present in the herb act as stimulant laxatives by increasing intestinal motility and promoting fluid and electrolyte secretion into the colon. Phenolic compounds contribute to its antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals and reducing markers of oxidative stress, thereby protecting cells from damage. The extract may also modulate inflammatory pathways and offer cytoprotection against toxin-induced damage, as observed in liver cells in animal models. The bioavailability of these active compounds can vary, with anthraquinones known to be absorbed and metabolized within the gastrointestinal tract.
Side effects
Sheep sorrel is considered potentially unsafe in large doses due to its oxalate content, which can lead to kidney and liver damage, and anthraquinones, which may cause diarrhea and electrolyte imbalances. Common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) can involve hypokalemia (low potassium) with prolonged laxative use. Rare but serious side effects (<1%) include renal and hepatic toxicity, particularly with high or chronic intake. Sheep sorrel may interact with diuretics, potentially potentiating potassium loss. Anthraquinones can also interfere with certain urine tests. It is contraindicated in individuals with a history of kidney stones, renal or liver impairment, and during pregnancy and lactation. Caution is advised for the elderly and those with existing electrolyte imbalances.
Dosage
There is no standardized dosing for sheep sorrel powder as a standalone supplement due to a lack of comprehensive clinical trials. In combination herbal products, such as Sinupret, sorrel is included at doses around 36 mg per dose, typically taken three times daily, but these formulations contain multiple herbs. Traditional uses often involve teas or extracts, but the safety and efficacy at these traditional doses are not clinically established. The absorption and bioavailability of active compounds, particularly anthraquinones, can be influenced by the preparation method, with aqueous extracts potentially enhancing bioavailability. Due to safety concerns regarding oxalate and anthraquinone content, particularly kidney and liver toxicity, high doses and prolonged use are not recommended, and upper limits for safe consumption are not defined.
FAQs
Is sheep sorrel effective for cancer?
There is no clinical evidence to support the use of sheep sorrel or Essiac for cancer treatment. Claims are based solely on anecdotal reports and preclinical data, not human trials.
Can sheep sorrel cause kidney damage?
Yes, due to its oxalate content, high doses or prolonged use of sheep sorrel can potentially lead to kidney damage, including the formation of kidney stones.
Is it safe to use sheep sorrel daily?
Long-term daily use of sheep sorrel is not recommended due to unestablished safety and the risk of side effects like diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and potential organ toxicity.
How quickly does sheep sorrel work?
Effects on bowel motility from anthraquinones may be observed within hours. However, antioxidant effects, as seen in models, would likely require longer exposure and are not clinically established in humans.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5424563/ – This animal study investigated the protective effects of a sorrel extract on liver toxicity and oxidative damage in rats exposed to carbon tetrachloride. It found that the extract reduced liver damage and oxidative stress markers, suggesting hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties, though its translational value to humans is limited.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6701418/ – This in vitro study demonstrated that a phenolic extract from sorrel reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human airway epithelial cells exposed to dust. This indicates potential antioxidant and protective effects against environmental stressors in respiratory cells, providing mechanistic insight but lacking clinical relevance.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/sheep-sorrel – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's review highlights that there is no clinical data to support the use of sheep sorrel for cancer or other conditions. It also emphasizes significant safety concerns related to its oxalate and anthraquinone content, including potential kidney and liver toxicity.
