Rheum Emodi in Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Potential and Pitfalls

Vishakha M. Singh¹ and Abhijit G. Banerjee²

Abstract

Rheum emodi, commonly known as Himalayan or Indian Rhubarb, is a medicinal plant with notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, traditionally valued in Ayurveda for managing inflammation-related disorders. Modern preclinical studies confirm its efficacy in autoimmune conditions, arthritis, and chronic ulcers, mainly due to bioactive constituents such as anthraquinones (emodin, rhein, aloe-emodin), flavonoids, and polyphenols. These compounds suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines, block NF-κB and MAPK signaling, and mitigate oxidative stress, showing comparable activity to drugs like ibuprofen. Green extraction techniques including ultrasound-assisted, supercritical fluid, and microwaveassisted methods optimize enrichment and stability of these phytochemicals, while bioassayguided fractionation enables enhanced purification. In vivo studies reveal dose-dependent reductions in acute and chronic inflammation with fewer side effects than conventional agents. Despite promising pharmacological evidence, clinical validation, safety assessment in at-risk populations, and standardized extraction protocols remain crucial for the therapeutic development of Rheum emodi against chronic inflammatory diseases.

Keywords

Rheum emodi; anthraquinones; antibacterial; anti-inflammatory; green extraction; immunomodulatory; NkB; MAPK

Corresponding Author

Abhijit G. Banerjee, CGBMRI, Durg, India.

Citation

Singh, V. M., Banerjee, A. G. (2025). Rheum Emodi in Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Potential and Pitfalls. Med Pharmacol Open Access. 1(1), 01-11.