Latin, Rheum (Gen., Rhei)

Eng., Rhubarb. The rhizome and roots of Rheum officinale, R. palmatum, etc.

Principal Constituents

Chrysophan, rheotannic acid, etc. Average Dose.-15 grains (1 Gm.).

Official Preparations.

Extractum Rhei

Eng., Extract of Rhubarb. A powder. Average Dose.-4 grains (0.25 Gm.).

Fluidextractum Rhei

Eng., Fluidextract of Rhubarb. Average Dose.-15 minims (1 mil).

Pilulae Rhei Compositae

Eng., Compound Pills of Rhubarb. Each Pill contains 0.13 Gm. (2 grains) of Rhubarb with Aloes, Myrrh and Peppermint.

Average Dose

2 pills.

Pulvis Rhei Compositus

Eng., Compound Powder of Rhubarb. Rhubarb, 25 Gm.; Magnesium Oxide, 65 Gm.; Ginger, 10 Gm. Average Dose.-30 grains (2 Gm.).

Syrupus Rhei

Eng., Syrup of Rhubarb. Represents 10 per cent. of the drug with Potassium Carbonate and Cinnamon. Average Dose.-2 1/2 fluidrachms (10 mils).

Syrupus Rhei Aromaticus

Eng., Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb. Represents 3 per cent. of the drug with aromatics. Average Dose.-2 1/2 fluidrachms (10 mils).

Tinctura Rhei

Eng., Tincture of Rhubarb. Represents 20 per cent. of the drug.

Average Dose

1 fluidrachm (4 mils).

Tinctura Rhei Aromatica

Eng., Aromatic Tincture of Rhubarb. Represents 20 per cent. of the drug with aromatics. Average Dose.-30 minims (2 mils).

Therapeutic Action

Purgative, stomachic, also astringent.

Uses,-Rhubarb is still a popular purgative with the laity. It is sometimes prescribed by the profession, but usually as an adjuvant for other agents. Its secondary effect is astringent.

Administration

Powdered Rhubarb is sometimes used with other purgative agents, and the other preparations are occasionally employed. The taste is disagreeable.

In combination with other purgatives:

M. ft. cap. no. iij. Sig.-One every hour.