Tag: Rhubarb risks

Although commonly mistaken for a fruit due to its culinary use in desserts, rhubarb is a vegetable with a surprising nutritional profile. This unassuming plant offers a host of health benefits, but is rhubarb considered a superfood worthy of the title alongside acai and kale?

While the stalks of rhubarb are a popular ingredient in pies and jams, its leaves contain high concentrations of oxalic acid, a toxin that can be fatal if ingested in large enough quantities. This fundamental distinction between the edible and toxic parts of the plant is critical for safe consumption.

Rhubarb leaves are well-known to be poisonous due to high concentrations of oxalic acid, but even the edible stalks can pose a risk to certain individuals. Therefore, understanding who should avoid eating rhubarb is crucial for preventing potential health complications like kidney issues, medication interference, and worsening existing conditions.

Although commonly used in pies and jams, rhubarb is botanically a vegetable, and a ruling in 1947 cemented its classification as a fruit for commercial purposes. This delicious yet confusing stalk can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, but it comes with important caveats regarding its toxic leaves and high oxalate content.

While rhubarb stalks are a popular ingredient for sweet desserts, the leaves are highly poisonous due to a high concentration of oxalic acid. Understanding the complete list of risks is essential when considering what are the cons of rhubarb and whether it's safe for everyone to consume.