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Rhubarb leaves poisoning - Overview

Alternative Names

Rheum officinale poisoning

Definition of Rhubarb leaves poisoning:

Rhubarb leaves poisoning occurs when someone eats pieces of leaves from the rhubarb plant.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

Anthraquinone glycosides (possible)
Oxalic acid

Where Found:

The leaves (leaf blade) of the rhubarb plant; the stalk can be eaten.

Reviewed last on: 2/17/2009
A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/27/2008).

References

Caravati EM, et al. Natural toxins. In: Dart R, et al. Medical Toxicology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins; 2004:chap 215.

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