
Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum)
Photo: Roger Culos · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Digestive
- 5 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
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.
Traditional uses & properties
Constituents: The rhizome contains anthraquinones and tannins.
Safety & precautions
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.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to China and Tibet, the plant is cultivated and found in the wild. Seeds are sown in spring, rhizomes are harvested in autumn after 6-10 years of growth once leaves yellow.
Traditionally used for
- Constipation13 herbs · 2 free
- Indigestion24 herbs · 2 free
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome11 herbs · 2 free
- Ulcers15 herbs · 2 free
- Psoriasis5 herbs · 2 free
Each condition shows its first 2 remedies free. Premium opens the full remedy list for every condition - or come back for the free Condition of the Day.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) as follows: Constituents: The rhizome contains anthraquinones and tannins.
What safety cautions apply to Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum)?
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.







