Tag: Chinese rhubarb

Native to China and Tibet, turkey rhubarb (*Rheum palmatum*) has been used in traditional medicine for millennia, but unlike its culinary cousin, it's crucial to understand which parts are safe to consume and which are highly toxic due to oxalic acid.

The use of Turkey rhubarb for its laxative effects dates back over 2,000 years, a testament to its long-standing importance in traditional medicine. This powerhouse herb, formally known as *Rheum palmatum*, is recognized by several other names, most notably Chinese rhubarb and Da Huang.

With more than 20 species in the *Rheum* genus, many people are confused about the different types of rhubarb. A key question for anyone interested in their nutrition diet is whether Chinese rhubarb is the same plant as the common garden variety found in pies and crumbles, a distinction that has significant implications for both cooking and safety.

Despite thousands of years of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its roots, the edibility of the Chinese rhubarb plant (Rheum palmatum) remains a point of confusion for many. The answer is nuanced and depends critically on the part of the plant and the variety, with strict safety considerations essential for both culinary and medicinal purposes.