Rhubarb is a medicinal plant, also known as spotted rhubarb or field rhubarb, with a powerful stimulating and digestive effect, used mainly in the treatment of constipation, as it has a laxative effect.
The stalk of this plant is used in the form of tea, but it can also be added in desserts or jellies, and its consumption brings benefits such as:
- Improve eye health by containing lutein, an antioxidant that protects the macula of the eyes; Prevent cardiovascular disease, as it contains fibers that reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and antioxidants that prevent atherosclerosis; Improve the skin and prevent pimples, as it is rich in vitamin A; Help in weight loss, by having few calories; Strengthen the immune system, as it is rich in selenium; Improve circulation, as it is rich in potassium; Relieve the symptoms of menopause, by containing phytosterols that help reduce hot flashes.
In addition, rhubarb also contains small amounts of the B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc, important nutrients for the general metabolism and the immune system.
Nutritional composition
The following table provides the nutritional information for 100 g of raw rhubarb:
| Nutrient | 100g rhubarb |
| Calories | 21 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 4.5 g |
| Proteins | 0.9 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fibers | 1.8 g |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Potassium | 288 mg |
| Selenium | 1.1 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 30.6 mcg |
Rhubarb can be eaten raw, cooked, in the form of tea or added to recipes like pies and jams.
Contraindications and care
Rhubarb is contraindicated for children, pregnant women, who are breastfeeding or menstruating, and for people with kidney problems.
In addition, the leaves of this plant are rich in oxalic acid, a substance that can kill when consumed in large quantities. If the rhubarb is placed in a cold place, such as in the freezer, oxalic acid can migrate from the leaves to the stem, which can cause problems for those who consume it. Thus, one should always remember to store rhubarb at room temperature or under light refrigeration.
Rhubarb Tea
Rhubarb tea is made as follows:
Ingredients:
- 500 ml of water2 tablespoons of the rhubarb stem
Method of preparation:
Put the water to boil with the rhubarb stem already in the pot. After boiling, lower the heat and let it boil for 10 minutes. Strain and drink hot or cold, without sweetening. See other home remedies for constipation.
Orange Jelly with Rhubarb Recipe
Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper and 1 teaspoon of orange juice.
Method of preparation:
Put all the ingredients in a pan and bring to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Pour the jelly into sterilized glass jars with a lid, keeping in the glacier after cooling.
