Re: Rhubarb OK to eat in autumn?

In article <_ZpVi.20004$B25.15975@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>,
"JoeSpareBedroom" <dishborealis@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

Because my rhubarb plant had the nerve to try and shade the oregano, I've
been cutting off its older, larger leaves all summer. I offered some to a
neighbor yesterday, but she wondered if it was OK to use the stalks at this
time of year (for baking). I had no idea. Anyone know?

I don't see why not. Still it was of those strange plants where the
leaves are toxic. Sounds like nightshade plants in a way that we love.

Bill


note this may matter

" the amount of oxalic acid is much lower, especially when harvested
before mid-June (in the northern hemisphere), but it is still enough to
cause slightly rough teeth.[citation needed]"

From below
..............



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb#Toxic_effects

Toxic effects


Rhubarb


Rhubarb flower.
Rhubarb leaves contain poisonous substances. Rhubarb leaves contain
oxalic acid, a corrosive and nephrotoxic acid that is present in many
plants. The LD50 (median lethal dose) for pure oxalic acid is predicted
to be about 375 mg/kg body weight,[citation needed] or about 25 g for a
65 kg (~140 lb) human. While the oxalic acid content of rhubarb leaves
can vary, a typical value is about 0.5%,[5] so a rather unlikely five
kilograms of the extremely sour leaves would have to be consumed to
reach an LD50 dose of oxalic acid. However, the leaves are believed to
also contain an additional, unidentified toxin.[6] In the petioles, the
amount of oxalic acid is much lower, especially when harvested before
mid-June (in the northern hemisphere), but it is still enough to cause
slightly rough teeth.[citation needed]
The roots and stems are rich in anthraquinones, such as emodin and
rhein. These substances are cathartic and laxative, which explains the
sporadic abuse of Rhubarb as a slimming agent. Anthraquinones are yellow
or orange and may colour the urine.[citation needed]

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Relevant Pages

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