Indian Rhubarb

BotanicalBest before bed

What is it

Indian rhubarb (Rheum australe, Rheum emodi) is a Himalayan species of rhubarb whose roots have a long history in Ayurvedic and traditional Asian medicine for digestion and as a laxative.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Occasional constipation (traditional/laxative use)

Limited Evidence

Anthraquinone-containing rhubarb species are effective stimulant laxatives, supported by long traditional use and limited modern clinical evidence. Short-term use only.

How it works

The roots contain anthraquinones (notably emodin and rhein) and tannins. Anthraquinones stimulate intestinal motility by acting on the colon, while tannins are astringent in lower doses. This combination produces a dose-dependent effect: small amounts are astringent (mildly anti-diarrheal), while larger amounts are laxative.

Dosage

Traditional doses range from 0.5-3 g of dried root or root extract per day. Standardized extracts of related Rheum species used as stimulant laxatives are typically 100-300 mg/day short-term.

When and how to take it

When used as a laxative, typically taken at bedtime to produce a morning bowel movement. Short-term use only.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root powder

Traditional preparation; effects peak 6-12 hours after dose.

Anthraquinones activated by colon bacteria

Safety

Long-term use of anthraquinone laxatives can cause dependence, electrolyte imbalance, and pseudomelanosis coli (cosmetic dark colon pigmentation). Short-term use at recommended doses is generally tolerated. Can cause cramping and watery stools.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and people with intestinal obstruction or inflammatory bowel disease. Avoid in dehydration or kidney impairment. Long-term laxative use is discouraged.

Interactions

Can decrease potassium levels, potentially affecting digoxin, diuretics, and corticosteroids. May reduce absorption of oral medications taken at the same time.

Food sources

Culinary rhubarb stalks (Rheum rhabarbarum)

Amount
1 cup cooked
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is Indian rhubarb the same as the rhubarb in pies?⌄

They are related Rheum species but not the same. Culinary rhubarb stalks are eaten as food; Indian rhubarb roots are used medicinally.

Is it safe to use long term?⌄

No. Anthraquinone laxatives should be used short-term only. Long-term use can cause dependence and other GI issues.

References

Indian Rhubarb on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Indian Rhubarb on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Indian Rhubarb (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.