Evidence supporting the use of: Himalayan Rhubarb
For the health condition: Blood in Stool

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Himalayan Rhubarb (Rheum emodi), known in Ayurveda as "Revand Chini" and in Traditional Chinese Medicine as "Da Huang," has been traditionally used as a purgative and for various gastrointestinal complaints, including bleeding disorders such as blood in stool (hematochezia). Ancient texts and ethnobotanical records from both Indian and Chinese traditions mention its use for "cooling the blood," reducing inflammation, and as a hemostatic agent. The root contains anthraquinones (such as emodin and rhein), which have laxative effects and may help clear "heat" from the intestines, a concept linked with bleeding in traditional medicine systems.

However, scientific validation for its efficacy specifically in treating blood in stool is limited. Some studies indicate that components of Himalayan Rhubarb have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and there is evidence of its astringent and hemostatic actions in vitro and in animal models. Nonetheless, there are no robust clinical trials examining its effectiveness or safety for patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. Furthermore, its laxative action could potentially worsen some causes of blood in stool. Thus, while its use for this condition is primarily justified by tradition, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy or safety in this specific context is weak.

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