USDA Nutrient-Dense Foods · Heritage Fruits
Rheum rhabarbarum (Rhubarb Stalk)
Strong EvidenceCompound
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Rhubarb stalk (Rheum rhabarbarum) contains anthraquinone glycosides and tannins that demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties through cytokine modulation. Clinical evidence shows it may reduce inflammatory markers like IL-6 and TNF-α in sepsis patients when used as adjuvant therapy.
Rheum rhabarbarum, or garden rhubarb, is a perennial plant native to Asia whose stalks (petioles) and roots are used for their nutritional and medicinal properties. Its bioactive compounds, including anthraquinones and stilbenes, are isolated using solvent-based extraction methods to create standardized phytopharmaceutical preparations. The plant is a member of the Polygonaceae family.
Rhubarb's efficacy is supported by a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials (869 patients) which confirmed its ability to lower key inflammatory markers in sepsis. [3] Furthermore, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 150 children demonstrated that rhubarb syrup significantly reduced the duration of fever and diarrhea in dysentery, [2] while a prospective study on 129 women validated a standardized extract (ERr 731) for managing menopausal symptoms. [5, 8]
Based on clinical trials, a standardized dried root extract (ERr 731) has been used at 4 mg daily for menopausal symptoms. For pediatric dysentery, a 5-day course of rhubarb syrup was administered, though the specific dose per administration was not detailed. Comprehensive dosage ranges for other preparations are not available in the provided research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Rhubarb stalk's anthraquinone glycosides, particularly sennosides and rhein, modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting NF-κB activation and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. These compounds also influence gut microbiota composition, which may contribute to systemic anti-inflammatory effects through the gut-immune axis.
A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials involving 869 sepsis patients demonstrated that adjuvant crude rhubarb treatment significantly reduced inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α compared to standard care alone. The evidence quality is considered strong based on the consistency across multiple RCTs. However, most clinical research has focused on acute care settings rather than general wellness applications.
Rhubarb stalk is generally safe when consumed as food, but concentrated extracts may cause gastrointestinal upset including diarrhea and cramping due to anthraquinone content. It may interact with anticoagulant medications due to potential effects on blood clotting. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid therapeutic doses, and individuals with kidney stones should exercise caution due to oxalate content. Long-term use of high doses may lead to electrolyte imbalances.
