English common name is root of rhubarb from mother plant Rheum palmatum
The root primarily contains hydroxyanthracene derivatives, including 1- and 8-O-monoglycosides and 1,8-O-glycosides of chrysophanol, aloe-emodin, rhein, frangula-emodin, and physcion. It also includes dianthrone glycosides such as sennosides A and B, as well as dianthrone aglycones like sennidins, palmidins, and rheidins. Additionally, the drug contains tannins (gallotannins) and phenylbutanone derivatives such as lindleyin and isolindleyin.
It is used as a laxative for short-term treatment of constipation.
The drug consists of dried whole or cut roots and rhizomes. These are typically sliced, with stems and the outer bark layer removed, including lateral rootlets. The appearance varies, with round slices up to 10 cm in diameter and 1 cm to 5 cm thick, as well as cylindrical, oval, or flattened pieces. The upper surface has a pale pinkish hue and is usually covered with a layer of brownish-yellow powder. The fracture is granular, and the root exhibits a distinctly radial structure.
It is listed in pharmacopoeia.
In pulverized drug under the microscope we can see:
