Rhubarb Root (Rhizoma rhei)

Rhubarb is a plant. The root and underground stem (rhizome) are used to make medicine. Rhubarb is used primarily for digestive complaints including constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and preparation for certain GI diagnostic procedures.

The rhubarb root is basically an herb that is in the form of a large root. This herb was initially imported from China. Rhubarb looks a great deal like celery but is pink in color and the leaves of the plant are quite toxic. The plant was introduced into Europe from China in 1778 before being introduced in America at the end of the eighteenth century.

The most prominent vitamin in rhubarb is actually vitamin K, and while it doesn’t often get as much attention as some of the other vitamins, Vitamin K plays a very significant role in brain and neuronal health. It can prevent the oxidation of brain cells and stimulates cognitive activity, thereby helping to delay or even prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Rhubarb is one of the best sources of vitamin C that helps to boost immune system. During the spring season the immune system tends to be weaker so including some Vitamin C rich foods in your daily diet is a must. Moreover, vitamin C is a key nutrient in collagen production.

The trace amounts of copper and iron found in rhubarb are enough to stimulate the production of new red blood cells, increasing the total RBC count in the body and increasing oxygenation of essential areas of the body, thereby improving their function and boosting the overall metabolism of the body.

Diabetic people can boost their health with rhubarb. The herb consists of fiber that avoids absorption of sugar, thus regulating blood sugar levels. It is a low glycemic index herb quite helpful for controlling diabetes.

Rhubarb is a good source of antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Antioxidants have been able to neutralize free radicals throughout the body. Free radicals are wastes from cellular metabolism that can cause healthy cells to mutate or die, resulting in cancer or other chronic diseases.

Thanks to its great laxative properties, rhubarb can help you prevent and cope with constipation. It improves appetite, helps to keep your digestive system healthy and relieve stomach pain. Consuming rhubarb in moderation can also help you treat intestinal parasites.

High levels of stress are dangerous for your physical and emotional well-being, and one cup of the celery like fruit can dramatically reduce tension. Vitamin K and other nutrients can reduce stress causing inflammation, along with depression and anxiety. The leafy fruit also contains magnesium and potassium that are essential to reduced stress levels, and to lower high blood pressure rates.

Thanks to the beta-carotene, precursor of vitamin A in this vegetable, it is useful for improving vision and repair skin cells. It also has phytochemical such as lutein, which is beneficial for eyesight. If you have an eye problem, including rhubarb in your diet is a great help.