Ingredient guide

Rhubarb Root: Short-Term Laxative Evidence

Rhubarb root contains anthraquinones that act as short-term laxatives. Trials support its use in occasional constipation and in critically ill patients with intestinal dysmotility. European guidance is short-term use only, under 1 week.

Moderate evidence

Written by Supplements Unpacked Editorial Team

Benefits

RCT in critically ill patients showed bowel movements within an average of 1.8 days.
Trial of anthraquinone-rich extract showed effective laxative action and prebiotic effects.
Recognised by European herbal guidelines for short-term constipation.

Evidence summary

What rhubarb root is

Rhubarb root is the rhizome of medicinal Rheum species (different from culinary rhubarb), used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The roots contain anthraquinones, especially sennoside A, which are metabolised by gut bacteria into active laxative compounds.

What the human research shows

An RCT of crude rhubarb extract supplementation showed effective laxative action via butyrate-producing bacteria. A study in 6 critically ill ventilated patients found rhubarb produced bowel movements within an average of 1.8 days. European herbal guidance recognises short-term use for occasional constipation at 20 to 30 mg of hydroxyanthracene derivatives per day for up to 1 week. We grade the evidence as moderate for short-term laxative use.

Dosage & safety

Dosage

Traditional and trial use is 20 to 30 mg of hydroxyanthracene derivatives per day for up to 1 week. Capsules and tablets typically supply standardised content. Use only short-term. Ask your healthcare provider before any laxative use.

Side effects

The most common are cramping, urgency, and loose stools.
Long-term use can cause dependence and electrolyte imbalance.
May turn urine yellow or brown.

Interactions

Rhubarb may add to the potassium loss from diuretics.
It may affect absorption of medicines taken at the same time.

Warnings

Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before rhubarb if you have bowel obstruction or long-term constipation.
Use only short-term, under 1 week, to avoid dependence.
Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Products with this ingredient

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Citations

What we already know about rhubarb: comprehensive review pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Constipation mitigation by rhubarb extract in middle-aged adults: RCT ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Rhubarb (LactMed) ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Frequently asked questions

Is rhubarb root a good laxative?

Yes, for short-term use. Trials and European guidance support it for occasional constipation, limited to under 1 week.

Can I use rhubarb root daily?

No. Long-term use of stimulant laxatives can cause dependence and electrolyte imbalance. Use only short-term.