Chinese Rhubarb

Clinical Notes. Use short-term only (max 1-2 weeks) to avoid dependence, electrolyte imbalance Processed forms (raw=purgative wine-fried=blood-activating cooked=stasis charcoal=hemostatic) alter effects/toxicity Prefer diet/bulk laxatives first for constipation Monitor in kidney disorders

Therapy. Rhubarb is an ideal laxative and cathartic according to the dose administered. In smaller amounts it is a gastro-intestinal stimulant and tonic, promoting the gastric secretions and insuring good digestion.

Therapy. In atonic conditions of the bowels, with debility or general relaxation, whether diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera morbus or cholera infantum is present, it is a most useful remedy. Its tonic powers are promptly exercised, and properly combined with indicated remedies, it produces markedly restorative effects. It acts directly upon the duodenum, and subsequently upon the entire intestinal tract. It is the laxative for debilitated patients, or for patients recovering from prostrating disease. Given to a nursing mother, like aloes, it relaxes the infant's bowels, and in some cases it is desirable to administer it to the mother for this purpose.

Properties and Uses. Turkey (Russian) rhubarb is the officinal standard, but the cheaper Indian root has almost superseded it. The two are nearly the same in general action; but the Turkey is pleasanter, a little less astringent, and of greater relative strength.