Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Rhubarb
For the health condition: Colic (adults)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum), also known as Da Huang, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a purgative and digestive aid. Historically, Chinese Rhubarb has been used to alleviate various digestive complaints, including abdominal pain and discomfort consistent with what is described as "colic" in adults. The herb is valued for its strong laxative effects, due to the presence of anthraquinone glycosides such as emodin and rhein, which stimulate intestinal peristalsis and promote bowel movements. In TCM, Chinese Rhubarb is also believed to "clear heat" and "resolve stagnation," concepts that are associated with relieving abdominal fullness and pain.

However, there is limited direct scientific research specifically assessing the efficacy of Chinese Rhubarb for adult colic as defined in Western medicine. Most available evidence comes from traditional formulations and anecdotal reports, rather than well-controlled clinical trials. Some pharmacological studies have confirmed the herb’s laxative and anti-inflammatory properties, which could theoretically contribute to relief of symptoms associated with digestive colic (such as constipation-related abdominal pain). Still, robust clinical data are lacking. Therefore, while the use of Chinese Rhubarb for colic is justified by tradition and historical practice, scientific validation for this specific indication is minimal.

More about Chinese Rhubarb
More about Colic (adults)

Products containing Chinese Rhubarb

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.