| | | | | | A hardy perennial, rhubarb is indigenous to the mountainous regions of western and northwestern Asia. It is also cultivated in many parts of the world. Rhubarb stalk is consumed as food whereas its root is used in traditional medicine to relieve constipation. The leaves, however, are inedible as they contain toxic levels of oxalic acid.
Limited clinical data suggest that rhubarb can improve feeding tolerance and relieve gastrointestinal dysfunction in critically ill patients. It may also reduce excess blood levels of pancreatic enzymes and pancreatitis events caused by some procedures. Preliminary findings show that rhubarb may be useful in treating mouth sores and in reducing radiation-induced side effects. Additional studies are needed to determine its safety and effectiveness. | | | | | | |
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