Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial plant with large fleshy rhizomes and large leaves with long, thick petioles. It is often grown for its stalks, which are a type of vegetable often found in supermarkets worldwide.
Toxic components
R. rhabarbarum contains high amounts of oxalic acid and anthranoids, especially anthraquinone glycosides, aloeemodin, physcion, tannins (5-10%), pectin, phenolic, and carboxylic acids. The amount of oxalic acid varies considerably depending on the growth stage of the plant, season, and environmental conditions such as drought, cloudy days, or excessive rain. Oxalic acid combines with calcium in the blood to form insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that may be deposited into the kidneys which lead to renal stones and kidney damage.
- Jaundice
- Tremors
- Hypersalivation
