Rhubarb
Rheum rhabarbarum
Rheum rhabarbarum, commonly known as rhubarb, is a traditional medicinal plant with origins in East Asia. Traditionally, it has been used for various purposes across different cultures, although specific uses are not extensively documented. Scientific evidence suggests that Rhubarb-derived extracellular vesicles have shown potential in modulating cellular activity relevant to Alzheimer's disease models. Additionally, a new species of Didymella, D. polygonacearum sp. nov., has been identified as capable of infecting both Reynoutria japonica and Rheum rhabarbarum under controlled conditions. The bioactive compounds found in Magnolia officinalis Rheum rhabarbarum Decoction have demonstrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects against Streptococcus pyogenes, though these findings are preliminary. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions with Rhubarb have been identified to date.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- A new species of Didymella, identified as D. polygonacearum sp. nov., was found capable of infecting both Reynoutria japonica and Rheum rhabarbarum under artificial conditions.
- The study found that Rhubarb products in Japan initially came from Rumex madaio but later were sourced from Rheum rhabarbarum.
- Rhubarb-derived extracellular vesicles showed reduced intracellular ROS levels and modulated glycolytic activity in Alzheimer's disease cellular models.
- The study identified bioactive compounds in Magnolia officinalis Rheum rhabarbarum Decoction that showed antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects against Streptococcus pyogenes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Rhubarb?
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Rhubarb?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Rhubarb; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: A new species of Didymella, identified as D. polygonacearum sp. nov., was found capable of infecting both Reynoutria japonica and Rheum rhabarbarum under artificial conditions.
How strong is the evidence for Rhubarb?
The strongest finding for Rhubarb carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Rhubarb safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Rhubarb in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Rhubarb interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Rhubarb in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Rhubarb?
Rhubarb is also known as: ревень, rhubarbe.
Is Rhubarb a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Utilizing network pharmacology and other tools to examine active components and mechanism of action of Magnolia officinalis rheum rhabarbarum decoction in treating Streptococcus pyogenes skin infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Rhubarb-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Mitigate Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Dysfunction in an Alzheimer's Cellular Model. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new species of Didymella from the eastern United States is a pathogen of invasive Reynoutria japonica. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Historical studies on the use of Rhubarb in Japan. literature abstract metadata