The health benefits of Rhubard extract have been studied for a very long time. The stem and root of this plant have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, and online health stores sell some of the top rhubarb extract products. Rhubarb includes compounds that may aid in healing cold sores and the reduction of swelling. Rhubarb is also rich in fiber, which may help lower cholesterol levels and improve digestive health.
According to WebMD, people use Rhubarb for diarrhea, stomach aches and cramps, menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, obesity, and pancreatic enlargement. This article will cover some of the claimed health benefits of Rhubarb extract and reference the studies associated with them. We will also provide an overview of the top rhubarb extract products that you can purchase.
Health Benefits of Rhubarb Extract
Many of the health benefits of Rhubarb extract have been tested during various types of studies, including randomized controlled trials. While some of the health benefits of Rhubarb extract may be overstated, there is still enough evidence to suggest it can improve your health in many different ways.
Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels
The high fiber content in Rhubarb may be able to help lower your cholesterol. One study recently published shows that men who consumed rhubarb for one month witnessed a decline in cholesterol. Specifically, their LDL cholesterol declined by 8% and their total cholesterol decreased by 9%. However, fiber from various sources is just as useful, and you can get enough fiber naturally from your diet.
Other studies have shown that taking rhubarb extract can help pregnant women avoid hypertension if they take it 28 weeks into their pregnancy.
Abundant in Antioxidants
Rhubarb also contains antioxidants, an excellent fiber source. Researchers believe it may have a greater polyphenol concentration overall as compared to kale, spinach, and broccoli. Rhubarb’s red hue comes from anthocyanins, an antioxidant that provides numerous health benefits. These anthocyanins are also found in other types of foods such as berries, grapes, red onions, and plums.
Rhubarb also contains Proanthocyanidins or condensed tannins. Some of the health advantages of fruits, red wine, and chocolate may be attributed to these antioxidants. Collectively, this allows rhubarb to prevent inflammation and may be able to help with serious health conditions.
Supports Bone Health
Rhubarb may also be able to help improve your bone health, although perhaps not as much as calcium or Vitamin D. Rhubarb is an excellent source of Vitamin K, which has been shown to help improve bone health and to prevent osteoporosis. There is limited research on Rhubarb specifically, mainly because the health benefits of Vitamin K are already very well known and Vitamin K deficiency is relatively rare.
Enhances Brain Power
The vitamin K in Rhubarb protects the brain from neuron damage, and can also help with bone health and blood clotting. Rhubarb also has various neuroprotective properties, which may potentially help with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, stroke, or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).
May Help you Lose Weight
In various studies, Rhubarb was shown to lower bad cholesterol, and its low caloric content makes it an excellent addition to meals for those who are lowering their calorie count. It also includes catechins, the same substances that give green tea health benefits. Catechins have been shown to increase metabolism, which aids weight reduction and burns body fat. Rhubarb is a common element in several weight loss regimens because of its laxative qualities. Animal studies have demonstrated that Rhubarb can help prevent diet-induced obesity.
Cancer Fighting Properties
Rhubarb has the potential to help with certain types of cancer, although there are not enough studies to verify this fully. Rhubarb’s anti-cancer benefits are amplified when baked; studies have shown that baking it for 20 minutes significantly increases its anti-cancerous capabilities. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center noted that it can also help reduce the side effects of lung cancer patients who are undergoing radiation therapy. Other studies have shown that Rhubarb can help fight against tumors.
Rhubarb Helps People with Diabetes
Rhubarb stem components have been demonstrated in certain studies to help improve blood sugar levels and even decrease cholesterol. In diabetics, the active ingredient, known as rhaponticin, is helpful. Another study found that Rhubarb combined with cinnamon also had a meaningful impact on helping to reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
Protects the Heart
Riboflavin, which is found in Rhubarb, is able to help lower your cholesterol. Consuming rhubarb stalk fiber reduced harmful cholesterol by 9%, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Rhubarb has been shown to have molecules that protect the arteries from damage, contributing to cardiovascular disease. The high levels of Vitamin K in Rhubarb is another major benefit, as Vitamin K can help prevent the calcification of blood vessels.
Improves Kidney Function
Rhubarb may be able to help improve your kidney function as well. One study showed that Chronic renal disease patients in stages 3 and 4 can benefit from rhubarb supplementation. However, the oxalic acid in Rhubarb can produce or worsen kidney stones. As a result, you should get medical advice before ingesting it.
Improves Skin Health
Vitamin A is found in abundance in Rhubarb. This plant-based antioxidant works to slow down the onset of aging-related symptoms by neutralizing free radicals (like wrinkles and fine lines). Thus, Rhubarb prevents cell damage caused by free radicals, keeping your skin youthful and radiant.
In addition to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Rhubarb also aids in the prevention of a wide range of skin ailments. Some alternative medicine practitioners advised using raw rhubarb paste as a topical therapy to treat different skin ailments. The stems of Rhubarb can be ground into a paste and applied to the face. After 15 minutes, remove with cold water and pat dry. Repeat this every day.
Top Rhubarb Extract Products
Below are some top rhubarb extract products to consider:
Liquid Extract: You can purchase rhubarb liquid extract from companies like Hawaii Pharm.
Rhubarb Extract Capsules: You can also purchase rhubarb extract capsules, which can contain up to 2,500 mg/capsule.
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