Overview
Rhubarb is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for yeast infections. Revandchini (Rhubarb) is the root of Rheum emodi. It is used as a liver tonic, purgative, and digestive stimulant. The root is brownish-red with a characteristic smell. It contains Anthraquinone glycosides which give it its purgative action. Used in liver disorders, constipation, and indigestion. Available as R. emodi (Indian) and R. webbianum Royle varieties. The root yields a yellow dye. Dose: 2-4 Masha. Verses: 131-133.
How Rhubarb Helps with Yeast Infections
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Rhubarb has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing yeast infections:
- Potency (Virya): cold
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): pungent
- Taste (Rasa): bitter
Safety & Precautions
Contraindications: * Manjishtha, shatavari, amalaki; for high pitta and ulceration in; the GIT; * Turmeric, myrrh, pippali for; female reproductive stagnations with ama
Safety: It may reduce the absorption of iron (Harkness & Bratman 2003). It may cause griping and should be used with appropriate antispasmodics. Laxatives containing anthroquinone glycosides should not be used at a high dose for more than 2 weeks at a time due to the potential risk of causing an electrolyte imbalance if diarrhoea is caused. Hence caution with cardiac glycoside medication, thiazide diuretics and concurrent hyperkalaemia from long-term laxative abuse due to potential problems caused by further electrolyte imbalance (WHO 1999).
Other Herbs for Yeast Infections
See all herbs for yeast infections on the Yeast Infections page.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.