Syrian rhubarb
Rheum ribes
Rheum ribes, also known as Tibetan rhubarb or Indian rhubarb, is a traditional medicinal plant native to Asia and Europe. Its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented; however, it has shown potential in certain scientific studies. Research indicates that extracts from Rheum ribes may exhibit effects on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) severity, though the findings were not statistically significant. Additionally, studies have demonstrated species-specific and dose-dependent impacts of Rheum ribes root and leaf extracts on seed germination timing and early growth parameters in certain plant species. Ohmic heating methods applied to Rheum ribes jam production resulted in higher total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and vitamin C levels compared to conventional heating techniques. A subfraction containing cinnamtannin B1 and epicatechin gallate from Rheum nepalensis was found to significantly reduce adhesion formation in a rat model, suggesting potential benefits for certain conditions. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified with Rheum ribes; however, further research is needed to fully understand its safety profile and potential interactions.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found a trend suggesting Echium amoenum L. and Rheum ribes may decrease OCD severity without significant side effects, though results were not statistically significant between groups.
- Rheum ribes root and leaf extracts showed species-specific and dose-dependent effects on seed germination timing and early growth parameters of Stipa barbata and Astragalus cyclophyllon.
- Ohmic heating at 35 V/cm produced jam with higher total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and vitamin C compared to conventional heating.
- A subfraction from Rheum nepalensis containing cinnamtannin B1 and epicatechin gallate significantly reduced adhesion formation in a rat model.
Frequently asked questions
What is Syrian rhubarb?
Syrian rhubarb (Rheum ribes) 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 Syrian rhubarb?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Syrian rhubarb; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found a trend suggesting Echium amoenum L. and Rheum ribes may decrease OCD severity without significant side effects, though results were not statistically significant between groups.
How strong is the evidence for Syrian rhubarb?
The strongest finding for Syrian rhubarb carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Syrian rhubarb safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Syrian rhubarb in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Syrian rhubarb interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Syrian rhubarb in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Syrian rhubarb?
Syrian rhubarb is also known as: Ревень смородинный.
Is Syrian 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 The Effectiveness of Herbal Mixture of Echium amoenum L. and Rheum ribes on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Triple-Blind Clinical Trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fibrinolytic and Anti-Abdominal Adhesion Effects of Tannin Derivatives from Rumex nepalensis Spreng.: Activity-Guided Isolation and Evaluation in a Postoperative Rat Model. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Quality Enhancement of Rhubarb (Rheum ribes L.) Jam by Ohmic Heating. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Investigating the effect of rhubarb (Rheum ribes L.) root and leaf extracts on seed germination timing and early growth parameters: An approach to plant allelopathy. literature abstract metadata