Rheum australe

Rheum australe
Family:Rheum australe; Digestive; Purgative; Tonic.
Common name:Himalayan rhubarb
Rhubarb has a long and proven history of herbal usage its main effect being a positive and balancing effect upon the whole digestive system. It is one of the most widely used herbs in Chinese medicine. The main species used is R. palmatum. Though the chemistry varies slightly this species is used interchangeably. The root is anticholesterolemic antiseptic antispasmodic antitumor aperient astringent cholagogue demulcent diuretic laxative purgative stomachic and tonic. Small doses act as an astringent tonic to the digestive system whilst larger doses act as a mild laxative. The root is taken internally in the treatment of chronic constipation diarrhoea liver and gall bladder complaints haemorrhoids menstrual problems and skin eruptions due to an accumulation of toxins. This remedy is not prescribed for pregnant or lactating women nor for patients with intestinal obstruction. Externally the root is used in the treatment of burns. The roots are harvested in October from plants that are at least six years old they are then dried for later use. A homeopathic remedy is prepared from the dried root. This is used especially in the treatment of diarrhoea in teething children.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 05:32 []