Introduction to Himalayan Rhubarb
In many small villages of Kinnaur, people avoid using ointments for inflammation or injury. Rather Archi or Arch is a household name. Archi or Arch is the Kinnauri name of Himalayan Rhubarb, scientifically known as Rheum webbianum Royle (Polygonaceae). It is found at an elevation of 2,400 and 4,300 metres above sea level. The main habitats preferred by most Rheum taxa are cold and dry alpine meadow, steppe desert and dry slopes. In general, the plants of this genus are referred to as Rhubarb and most of them have medicinal properties. There are at least 7 species of Rhubarb in India, among which Himalayan Rhubarb is the most valuable and has been used for its medicinal properties for a long time. It is a perennial plant which can be propagated via rhizomes or seeds. A plant that lives for more than two years is referred to as a perennial plant. And rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that produce both roots and shoots. Leaves of Himalayan Rhubarb are roundish with a heart-shaped base and can be quite large. The flowers bloom in July.
Uses of Arch in traditional practices
Every part of Arch holds valuable medicinal properties and is used for various purposes by the people of Kinnaur. A paste is made by rubbing the dried roots against a Pan(slate) and adding water to it. The paste is yellow in colour. And is a potent remedy for inflammation and injuries. Turmeric may also be added to the paste.
The leaves of this plant are crushed and boiled in water, and consumed thrice a day to treat piles and chronic bronchitis. Leaves along with stems and branches are sour in taste and find their way into various culinary delights such as chutneys, pakoras, and vegetable dishes. They can be consumed raw as well. Consuming these leaves orally, after boiling and crushing, is believed to aid in treating piles and chronic bronchitis.
In Tibetan medicine term it is called ཆུ་རྩ། (Chhutsa). Its stem & leaf are used to restore appetite. And roots are used for indigestion, bloating and treating rotten wounds.In Hindi the plant is called - रेवंद चीनी (Revand Chini). In Ladakh and Spiti it is known as Lachu and its Garwhali name is Archu.
Interesting facts
The plant is considered endangered and that is why exporting this plant requires a special export permit. Another Rheum species R. australe is also mentioned in various ancient texts to cure a range of ailments like gastritis, stomach problems, blood purification, menstrual problems and liver diseases. More recent studies have shown that the Rheum species also
have antimicrobial activity, anti-cancer activity, and anti-diabetic activity.
The common compounds found in most Rheum species are anthracene
derivatives (responsible for the purgative effect), stilbene glycosides, naphthalene
derivatives, catechin derivatives, and some tannin-related compounds such as galloyl
esters of glucose that occur in their leaves and rhizomes. Aloe-emodin, an
anthraquinone constituent plays a major role in reducing blood sugar by inhibiting α-
glucosidase (which breaks down the disaccharides into glucose and increases blood
sugar).
Rheum's healing prowess is astounding. The Himalayan valleys of Kinnaur are home to a treasure trove of medicinal flora and the wisdom around it, each plant weaving a unique story of healing and nurturing that must be cherished and protected for generations to come.
Field work by Tanisha Negi and Pramiti Negi and contributions by Preeti Saryan, Tanzin Yondan, Tanisha, Nand Kishore (Johnny) and more.
(Note : Some of the indigenous knowledge of Kinnaur and Tibetan usage may not have been proven scientifically. For the scientifically researched information links are provided in the article. )
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