Yellow dock's therapeutic uses
Yellow dock, also known as Rumex crispus, is a perennial herb with a history of traditional use in various medicinal applications, particularly for digestive and skin-related issues. This plant has been suggested for treating conditions such as constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and minor skin wounds due to its astringent properties. The root contains anthraquinones, which may promote bowel movements, making it a possible component in herbal laxatives. Additionally, yellow dock is thought to support liver function and aid detoxification processes.
Despite its historical usage, there are no established medical uses for yellow dock, and clinical studies validating its effectiveness are lacking. Safety concerns exist, particularly for pregnant or nursing women, children, and those with severe liver or kidney conditions. Potential side effects include cramps, diarrhea, and, in extreme cases, serious health issues from excessive consumption. Observational studies suggest that while yellow dock may offer therapeutic benefits, more rigorous research is needed to substantiate its uses and safety. As with any herbal remedy, caution and consultation with healthcare providers are advised before use.
Yellow dock's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, minor skin wounds, skin conditions, liver support, digestive aid, antimicrobial properties
Overview
Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) is a perennial flowering herb native to Europe that grows throughout the United States. Its yellow roots were traditionally thought to have medicinal properties, and its sour-sweet leaves can be used, in moderation, as a salad green.
Historically, the plant has been used to treat a variety of problems, including constipation and diarrhea, dermatitis, and venereal diseases. Powdered yellow dock root has also been used as a mouthwash or toothpaste.
Therapeutic Dosages
Typical doses of yellow dock root are 2 to 4 grams of dried root, 2 to 4 milliliters (ml) of liquid extract, or 1 to 2 ml of tincture.
Therapeutic Uses
Yellow dock root has no established medical uses, and no clinical studies exist. However, it contains chemicals called anthraquinones (also found in the more famous herbal laxative senna), which stimulate bowel movements. For this reason, yellow dock is occasionally included in herbal laxative mixtures.
Like many other plants, yellow dock contains a substantial amount of tannins. These have astringent properties that may offer some benefit for treating minor skin wounds and hemorrhoids. Yellow dock is also sometimes recommended for nasal and lung congestion.
There are several other suggested therapeutic uses for yellow dock. Due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, yellow dock may be useful in treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Supplementation with yellow dock may increase liver function and aid the body’s detoxification process. Yellow dock may also help as a general digestive aid. Still, the majority of research on yellow dock has been through animal and observational studies. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are necessary to determine the efficacy of yellow dock in treating specific conditions.
Safety Issues
Comprehensive safety studies of yellow dock have not been performed, and for this reason, it should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, young children, or individuals with severe liver or kidney disease. As with any stimulant laxative, yellow dock should not be used if there is an intestinal obstruction. Possible side effects of overuse include cramps, diarrhea, nausea, intestinal dependence on the laxative, and excessive loss of potassium.
In addition, yellow dock (like spinach) contains oxalic acid. Consuming excessive quantities of oxalic acid can cause severe toxic symptoms, including vomiting and abdominal pain, and, in extreme cases, kidney stones or kidney failure. One case of fatal yellow dock poisoning has been documented. The victim, who had diabetes, ingested 1 kilogram of the raw herb in a salad and died of liver and kidney failure. The liver failure was not explained. One study conducted in the early 2020s showed a possible connection between yellow dock and bleeding disorders; however, more study was necessary.
Bibliography
Latif, Asnia, et al. "Herbal Teas and Thrombocytopenia: A Curious Case of Yellow Dock and Burdock-Induced Thrombocytopenia." European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine, vol. 9, no. 3, 25 Mar. 2022, doi:10.12890/2022‗003247.
McGuffin, M., editor. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, 1997.
Reig, R., et al. "Fatal Poisoning by Rumex crispus (Curled Dock): Pathological Findings and Application of Scanning Electron Microscopy." Veterinary and Human Toxicology, vol. 32, 1990, pp. 468-470.
"Yellow Dock – Health Information Library." PeaceHealth, 3 June 2015, hwww.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2189000. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
"Yellow Dock Uses, Benefits & Dosage." Drugs.com, 15 Aug. 2024, www.drugs.com/npp/yellow-dock.html. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.