Tinctura Rhabarbi
Tincture of Rhubarb

Tradition:

Western

Source / Author:

Pharmacopoeia Bateana (translated by Salmon, 1713)

Herb Name	Latin	Amount
Rhubarb	Rheum palmatum
Licorice	Glycyrrhiza uralensis	2 oz. ea.
Raisins, stoned	Vitis vinifera	60 (in number)
Aniseed	Pimpinella anisum	1 oz.
Sugar Candy	Saccharum	6 oz.
Spiritum Vitae (Brandy)	Spiritum Vitis	2 lbs.

Preparation:

Bruise the herbs and beat the Raisins, steep in the alcohol for 8–10 days in a warm place, shaking daily. Strain and keep for use.

Function:

Gently Purges, Benefits Qi, Moves Qi

Use:

“For tho’ it Purges, it strengthens Admirably”. (Salmon)
1. Mild constipation
2. Colic, Bloating
3. Abdominal distention
4. as an aid in chronic Diarrhea, Dysentery etc.
5. Dribbling Urine
6. Leukorrhea

Comment:

This is a mild purge while being strengthening and increasing Qi. It therefore is suitable for occasional use in the old or weak. It was also regarded as useful in chronic bowel conditions including Diarrhea and Dystentery, being able to purge while strengthening the bowels, and therefore may be useful in chronic and inflammatory Bowel diseases.

Dose:

Lower doses strengthen and regulate the bowels and relieve Wind to ease pain and griping or discomfort in the intestines.
Large doses will purge gently.
2, 3 or 4 spoonfuls, usually in the morning