Rhubarb is the root of the species Rheum. It can be found growing in the mountains of the Western and North-western provinces of China. It can also be found in the adjoining Thibetan territory. This herb is also known as Russian rhubarb, Turkey rhubarb, and East Indian and Chinese rhubarb. However, the geographical source of all species is the same, with the commercial names of the herb only indicating the route by which it formerly reached the European market. At the present day, practically all rhubarb is conveyed to Europe via Shanghai.

The technical name of the rhubarb genus is derived from Rha, which is the ancient name of the Volga, on whose banks the plants grow. Other authorities derive the name from the Greek word Rheo, which means to flow, which is an allusion to the purgative properties of the root. The rhubarb plant is dug in October. The root is scraped or rasped and halved longitudinally when it is very large. Then, it should be cut into transverse pieces and strung on cords to dry in the sun. Afterwards, the drying is completely by stove heat.

In commerce, Chinese or Turkey rhubarb is found in brownish-yellow pieces of various size. It is usually perforated, with the holes containing a portion of the cord that is used to hang the sections of the root on during drying. The outer surface is generally powdery, with the bark having been removed, and showing a network of lines. The taste of this herb is astringent and nauseous. It also possesses a characteristic odor. The powdered root, a fluid extract, a tincture, syrup, infusion, and solution are used as preparations in medicine. The herb is also employed as a principal ingredient in compound powder and in compound pills.

Europe was brought to the New World from Europe. The herb is used as a laxative because it cleans intestinal irritants and checks diarrhea without its astringent action when taken in large doses. Rhubarb is very helpful when the stomach is weak and the bowels are relaxed. This is because it acts as a gentle cathartic. When it is taken in small doses, rhubarb acts as a blood cleanser and builder. This herb is very useful in toxic blood conditions that are caused by an excessive intake of meat. Rhubarb is also a mildly stimulating alterative for the liver, gall bladder, and mucous membranes of the intestines. The herb can be used as a digestive aid.

The root of the rhubarb plant is used to provide alterative, antibacterial, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antineoplastic, astringent, diuretic, hepatic, hypotensive, parasiticide, mild purgative, sialagogue, stomachic, and vulnerary properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are calcium, cobalt, iron, nickel, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, sulfur, tin, and vitamins A, B-complex, and C. Primarily, rhubarb is extremely beneficial in treating toxic blood, colon problems, diarrhea, and liver disorders.

Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with anemia, colitis, constipation, dysentery, indigestion, jaundice, gallbladder problems, gastric disorders, and headaches. In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by rhubarb, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.

Look for rhubarb at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Look for rhubarb at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Author Bio: Look for rhubarb at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Rhubarb, Laxative, Colon Health, Herbs, Enemia, Constipation