Indications
Qurs Rhubarb is a Unani preparation based on rhubarb root (Rheum species, known as Revand Chini), often with other digestive herbs. It is traditionally used for indigestion, acidity, wind and bloating, loss of appetite and mild constipation, and as a tonic for the stomach and liver. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited. It should not be used for long-term constipation without medical advice.
How It Works
Rhubarb root contains two main groups of natural substances. In small amounts, its tannins (astringent, drying compounds) and bitter substances are believed to tone the stomach and improve digestion. In larger amounts, its anthraquinones (natural laxative compounds, similar to those in Senna) stimulate the bowel muscles and draw water into the bowel, which softens stools. The effect therefore depends on the dose.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals with water. Do not take more than recommended, and do not use it as a laxative for more than about 1 week without medical advice. It is not recommended for children unless a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
- Long-term or high-dose use can lower potassium. This increases the risk of side effects with Digoxin and heart rhythm medicines, and adds to potassium loss from water tablets such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide and from steroids such as Prednisolone.
- It may reduce the absorption of other medicines if they are taken at the same time; keep about 2 hours apart.
- Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners such as Warfarin.
Contraindications
- Bowel blockage, unexplained stomach pain, appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Kidney stones or kidney disease, because rhubarb contains oxalate.
- Children under 12 years, unless a practitioner advises it.
- Allergy to rhubarb or any ingredient.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include stomach cramps, loose stools or diarrhoea, and harmless yellow-brown or reddish colouring of urine. Long-term use may cause loss of fluids and salts, weakness and a lazy bowel.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe stomach pain, bloody or black stools, severe diarrhoea with dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as stimulant laxatives may trigger womb contractions. Avoid while breastfeeding, as some laxative substances may pass into breast milk and cause loose stools in the baby.
Precautions and Warnings
- A change in bowel habit lasting more than 2 weeks, blood in stools, or weight loss needs a doctor’s check.
- Older people and those with heart or kidney problems are more likely to suffer from fluid and salt loss.
- Drink enough water while using it.
- Buy only from trusted, licensed makers.
Overdose
Overdose can cause severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps, dehydration and low potassium, which may affect the heart. Seek medical help if a large amount is taken, especially by a child or older person.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (digestive and mild laxative).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.