Rhubarb Root (Rheum Palmatum)

The gut regulator — constipation, liver stimulation, and gut cleansing from the most powerful laxative root in Chinese and Western herbalism.

Rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum) — medicinal rhubarb, not the garden variety — is one of the oldest and most potent gastrointestinal herbs in the world, used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years and in European pharmacy since the Middle Ages. Its anthraquinone glycosides (rhein, emodin, aloe-emodin) stimulate intestinal peristalsis and bile secretion, making it a reliable and rapid laxative at higher doses, and a gentle digestive and liver tonic at lower doses. A biphasic herb: the dose determines whether it stimulates or tones the gut.

Key Benefits
Constipation relief · Liver & bile stimulation · Gut cleansing · Anti-inflammatory · Antibacterial · Digestive tonic (low dose)

How to Use
Low dose (tonic): Simmer ½ tsp dried rhubarb root in 250ml water for 10 mins. Drink 1 cup before meals as a digestive bitter. Higher dose (laxative): Simmer 1–1½ tsp in 250ml water. Drink 1 cup before bed. Bitter, earthy flavour. Pairs with liquorice root or ginger to balance and reduce griping. Do not use for more than 7–10 consecutive days as a laxative.

When to Expect Results
Laxative action: 6–12 hours · Digestive tonic & liver: 1–2 weeks · Anti-inflammatory: 2–4 weeks.

Who It's For
• Acute & chronic constipation
• Liver sluggishness & bile flow
• Gut cleansing protocols
• Digestive tonic (low dose)
• Anti-inflammatory gut conditions

Who Should Avoid
• Pregnant or nursing — avoid; anthraquinones are contraindicated
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, colitis) — avoid
• Kidney stones — high oxalate content; consult GP
• On cardiac glycosides or diuretics — electrolyte effects; consult GP
• Children under 12 — avoid
• Do not use as laxative for more than 7–10 days continuously

Storage
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Best used within 12–24 months.

Organically grown · Third-party tested · Free from pesticides & contaminants.