Rhubarb root is used in the form of self-prepared tea infusions. There are no ready-made tea preparations in the market. For use in inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, the dry extract is offered in the form of a solution.
Rhubarb root: what dose?
No more than 30 mg of hydroxyanthracene derivatives should be taken daily. This dosage is achieved by drinking a cup of tea containing 1.65 g of rhubarb root.
However, the individually correct dosage is the lowest one with which you will get a soft-formed stool. If necessary, even half a cup of the tea can be enough for this.
Rhubarb – preparation as a tea
For the development of the laxative effect, 1-2 g of the coarsely powdered drug (1 teaspoon corresponds to about 2.5 g) can be poured over boiling water or just mixed with enough liquid. After 5 minutes, everything can be passed through a tea strainer.
The tea should be drunk in the evening before going to bed.
Contraindications: When should rhubarb not be used?
Rhubarb root should not be taken in cases of intestinal obstruction (ileus), abdominal pain of unknown cause, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and appendicitis, as well as by pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under 10 years of age.
It is also contraindicated in cases of severe water deficiency (dehydration) and electrolyte depletion.
4 Special Notes
- Please note that the onset of action usually occurs 6-10 hours after taking the root.
- Stimulant laxatives should not be taken for a period longer than 1-2 weeks without medical advice.
- Rhubarb root should also be used only if dietary changes and the use of bulking agents do not improve intestinal sluggishness.
- Please store rhubarb roots dry and protected from light.