HerbMate

Herb comparison

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) vs Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum)

Both plants are listed as traditional remedies for 3 of the same conditions, which is why they are easy to confuse. Their descriptions and full safety notes are below, free.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) plant

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) plant

Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum)

About
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) has bright orange daisy-like flowers.
Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) is a thick-rhizomed perennial, growing up to 10 ft (3 m) tall, with large, palmate leaves and small flowers. It has been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years.
Safety & precautions
Internal Use & Pregnancy: Not advised during pregnancy when taken internally. Topical Use: Allergic skin reactions may occur. General Note: Calendula has a mild estrogenic effect and may influence menstruation.
Pregnancy & Nursing: Avoid due to its stimulant and potential toxic effects in large doses. Children: Not suitable; can be harsh on digestion. Kidney Stones & Gout: High oxalic acid content can aggravate these conditions.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.

Conditions that list both