Rhubarb: 6 Benefits & Uses

While legally classified as a fruit, rhubarb is technically a vegetable. It has a sweet, tart taste and is packed with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. It contains fiber, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Rhubarb benefits include the ability to improve digestion, lower inflammation, strengthen the bones and protect the brain from disease.

Rhubarb Benefits

1. Eases Digestion

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to aid in digestion, thanks to the fiber it contains. Research has shown that rhubarb can help ease abdominal discomfort and promote healthy digestion. As a high-fiber food, it works to relieve a bloated stomach while ensuring regularity. (1)

2. Strengthens Bones and Prevents Osteoporosis

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to strengthen the bones. It contains a healthy dose of Vitamin K, which benefits bone metabolism and provides protection from osteoporosis. Vitamin K helps increase calcium absorption to increase bone mineral density and reduce the risk of fractures. Research has shown that a Vitamin K deficiency raises the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Protects the Brain From Disease

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to protect the brain from disease. Oxidative stress can lead to stroke, Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. Studies have shown that rhubarb extract helps to fight inflammation and protect the brain from free radicals that can cause damage. According to research published in Molecular Medicine Reports, rhubarb benfeits include the ability to decrease inflammation in the brain and protect the brain from oxidative stress. Studies suggest that rhubarb may help fight brain disorders like ALS, stroke and others. (2)

4. Fights Free Radicals

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to fight off free radicals. It's loaded with antioxidants that work to protect the body from damage. Rhubarb contains quercetin, a powerful antioxidant known to prevent free radical scavenging. It also contains myricetin, epicatechin, hyperoside and quercitrin, all considered to be potent antioxidants. Thanks to these compounds, rhubarb benefits include the ability to prevent free radical scavenging activity in order to protect the body from damage. (3)

5. Relieves Constipation and Diarrhea

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to relieve constipation and diarrhea. The fiber it contains helps ensure that the digestive system runs smoothly. Rhubarb benefits also include the ability to help ease pain caused by hemorrhoids. Studies suggest that consuming rhubarb on a regular basis may help naturally treat gastrointestinal discomfort.

6. Lowers Inflammation

Rhubarb benefits include the ability to lower inflammation. It's been used in Chinese medicine for years, thanks to its ability to promote healthy skin, fight off infection and protect the body from disease. Research published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that rhubarb extract showed significant positive effects in healing inflammatory cells. Rhubarb's natural anti-inflammatory properties help fight infection and disease linked to both chronic and acute inflammation.