Rumex nepalensis

Physical Characteristics

Rumex nepalensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. W. Europe to E. Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Tender young leaves and shoots - cooked as a vegetable[272]. Root - a rhubarb substitute[177]. We are not sure if this report refers to the medicinal or edible uses of rhubarb[K].

Medicinal Uses

Purgative Stomachic The root is purgative[240, 272]. It is used as a substitute for rhubarb (Rheum spp.)[240]. A strong decoction of the root is applied to dislocated bones[272]. A paste of the root is applied to swollen gums[272]. The leaves are used in the treatment of colic[240]. The juice of the leaves is applied externally to relieve headaches[272]. A decoction of the plant is used to wash the body in order to alleviate body pain[272].

Known Hazards

Plants can contain quite high levels of oxalic acid, which is what gives the leaves of many members of this genus an acid-lemon flavour. Perfectly alright in small quantities, the leaves should not be eaten in large amounts since the oxalic acid can lock-up other nutrients in the food, especially calcium, thus causing mineral deficiencies. The oxalic acid content will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].