Rheum ribes
Rheum ribes is a species of plant in the Polygonaceae family, commonly known as Syrian rhubarb. It is native to the regions of Western Asia and Southeastern Europe, where it grows in wild and cultivated forms. This perennial plant is notable for its large leaves and thick, fleshy stalks, which are often used in traditional medicine and cooking.
Description[edit | edit source]
Rheum ribes is a herbaceous perennial plant that can reach up to 1-2 meters in height. It has large, broad leaves that are green on the top and reddish-purple underneath. The plant produces small flowers arranged in large compound racemes, which later develop into triangular-shaped fruits. The stalks of Rheum ribes are edible and have a sour taste, similar to that of the more commonly known garden rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum).
Cultivation[edit | edit source]
Rheum ribes prefers well-drained, fertile soil and can be grown in areas with full sun to partial shade. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. This plant is relatively hardy but may require protection from frost in colder climates. Propagation is typically done through seed or division in early spring.
Uses[edit | edit source]
- Medicinal Uses
Traditionally, Rheum ribes has been used in herbal medicine for its various health benefits. It is believed to have laxative, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The roots and stalks are used in the treatment of digestive disorders, fever, and skin conditions. However, scientific research supporting these medicinal uses is limited.
- Culinary Uses
The stalks of Rheum ribes are edible and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. They are often cooked with sugar and used in pies, jams, and desserts. The sour taste of the stalks can also complement savory dishes. It is important to note that only the stalks are edible; the leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic if ingested.
Conservation[edit | edit source]
Rheum ribes is not currently listed as endangered, but like many wild plant species, it faces threats from habitat loss and overharvesting. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the sustainability of this species for future generations.
See Also[edit | edit source]
 | This plant article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
