Botany
An erect, simple and sparingly branched plant growing to a height of 30 to 90 cms. Leaves are variable in shape, the lower leaves, oblong to oblong-lanceolate, 2 to 30 cm long, the upper leaves narrowly oblong or lanceolate, 7 tp 16 cm long., Panicles are rather dense. Valves are entire, usually three-tubercled. Achene is oblong-ovoid, 2 mm long.

Distribution
Recently introduced to the Benguet area; sparingly naturalized at altitudes of 1,400 to 2,200 meters.

Chemical constituents and characteristics
Root contains anthraquinone, tannins and oxalic acid.
Leaves contain emodin and brassidinic acid.
The plant yields tannic acid, oxalic acid.
Also yields rumicin, a tasteless yellow substance, a skin irritant used for skin parasites.
Root is mildly purgative and astringent, tonic and febrifuge.
Plant traditionally used as 'blood purifier,' tonic and astringent.

Parts utilized
Roots and rhizome.

Uses
Folkloric
Root decoction used for fevers.
Fresh bruised roots for skin ailments, dermatitis and skin rashes.
Root decoction used for jaundice, constipation, psoriasis; laxative effect attributed to anthraquinone.
Also used to stimulate bile production.
Used for acute and chronic inflammation of nasal passages.
Others
Young leaves used as vegetable.
Sometimes referred to as "poor man's ginseng."

Caution
Young leaves must be boiled to remove the oxalate content; deaths have been reported after consuming uncooked leaves for medicinal purposes.
Because of oxalate content, should be avoided in those with kidney disease.
Probably unsafe in pregnancy because of anthraquinone content.
Anthraquinone is secreted in breast milk, and therefore a concern for breastfeeding mothers.

Availability
Wild-crafted.