The Efficacy and Function of Rhubarb (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma)

Generally, Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) has various therapeutic effects and functions, including heat purging and bowel regulation, breaking up accumulations and promoting blood circulation, cooling blood and detoxification, clearing heat and fire, and anti-platelet aggregation. The specific details are as follows:

1. Heat purging and bowel regulation: Rhubarb can eliminate heat pathogens from the body and promote intestinal motility, thereby relieving constipation. It is especially suitable for treating constipation caused by heat accumulation or heat-induced hard stool.

2. Breaking up accumulations and promoting blood circulation: Rhubarb can help resolve blood stasis and treat symptoms such as traumatic bruising and swelling pain. It promotes blood circulation and accelerates the dissipation and absorption of blood stasis.

3. Cooling blood and detoxification: Rhubarb is cold in nature and possesses the effect of cooling blood and detoxification. It is highly effective for treating symptoms such as jaundice caused by damp-heat and abscesses or ulcers caused by toxic heat. It inhibits bacterial growth and reproduction, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling.

4. Clearing heat and purging fire: Rhubarb also has the function of clearing heat and purging fire, and can treat various diseases caused by heat pathogens, such as high fever, thirst, and irritability. It helps reduce body temperature and alleviate symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

5. Anti-platelet aggregation: The water extract of rhubarb exhibits a mild inhibitory effect on collagen-induced human platelet aggregation, which helps prevent thrombosis and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Pregnant women, lactating women, and patients with certain medical conditions should consult a physician before use to avoid adverse reactions. Additionally, the dosage of rhubarb must be strictly controlled, as excessive use may cause discomfort such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.