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May 2010

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb, a plant native to western china is commonly cultivated in cold countries. Although technically a vegetable, practically it is often treated as a fruit and often referred to as the ‘pie plant’. It is highly tart or acidic in taste and often cooked with lot of sugar and honey to make it edible. Often consumed as a pie, it can also be used otherwise. It is the stalk of this perennial plant that is consumed, not its leaves. Rhubarb is considered to have several health benefits. This tart treat has health benefits that will make anyone want to go out and try a few. Health benefits of rhubarb are many, and offer a great amount of nutritional value. Rhubarb in the past was used for fevers and used as a laxative. With the benefit of Vitamin C and fiber, rhubarb offers many other benefits to the consumer. Health benefits of rhubarb are:

1. Rich source of dietary fiber: Rhubarb is considered a rich source of dietary fiber and suitable for those suffering from stomach ailments especially indigestion and acidity. It is often prescribed as a laxative in herbal medicine both for constipation and diarrhea.

2. Anti-cancer properties: Regular consumption of rhubarb is believed to increase white blood cells in our body. These cells are essential for reducing free radicals, which are responsible for causing cancer. Further the consumption of this tart treat is believed to prevent different types of tumors.

3. Eases menopausal symptoms: Rhubarbs are high in calcium and considered the best diet for women as it prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Further, consumption of this vegetable during menopause is believed to ease the symptoms including hot flashes.

4. Reduces cholesterol and hypertension: Rhubarb has the ability to absorb bad cholesterol in the body and reduce the risk of clogged arteries and stroke. It is also believed to effectively reduce blood pressure.

5. Anti-bacterial properties: Rhubarb has anti-bacterial properties and is considered an effective topical treatment for injuries, wounds, and cuts. It has the ability to prevent staphylococcus infections. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. The paste of the rhubarb stalk and its juice are commonly used for topical application.

6. Prevents deep vein thrombosis: The vitamins and nutrients in rhubarb help prevent deep vein thrombosis. It is an ailment where blood clots in the feet and slowly spreads to the lungs if left untreated. Consuming rhubarb is a simple and natural way of preventing this ailment.

7. Enhances metabolic rate: Being a rich source of dietary fiber, rhubarbs ensure smooth digestion. The potassium in this vegetable is believed to enhance the metabolic rate. Thus, both these nutrients make rhubarb the best bet for those looking forward to reducing their weight.

This vegetable is commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine and as a fruit because of its laxative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties. Although, its stem has several health benefits, the leaf of rhubarb is considered to contain oxalic acid, which is poisonous and corrosive. Therefore the leaf should be avoided. Rhubarb is available as a fresh fruit, tinned, or even as supplements. So, enjoy this fruit, which is pleasant to taste, but at the same time ensures your good health the natural way. The health benefits of Rhubarb are many and can offer many more benefits. Researching the health benefits can be beneficial for anyone. So next time you are out and about, pick of some rhubarb and live a happy, healthy life.