About Rheum root
Medicinal rhubarb root (Rheum spp.) contains anthraquinones with a stimulant-laxative effect and tannins. Used in TCM and Essiac-type blends. Human trial evidence for supplement uses is weak; the laxative action is the best-characterized effect and carries dependence/electrolyte concerns with chronic use. Note: menopause products often use a distinct rhapontic rhubarb extract (ERr731), which is a separate standardized product.
What Rheum root supports
- Traditional digestive herb; anthraquinone content gives a stimulant-laxative effect
How much Rheum root to take
The RDA prevents deficiency. The effective range is what clinical trials used to actually move the outcome.
Effective
100–1000
mg
No single established supplement dose; anthraquinone-containing root used at ~0.1-1 g. Nominal range for a blend component.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence. Laxative action characterized; other supplement uses weakly evidenced.