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Rhubarb leaves
Definition:
Poisoning caused by consumption of leaf blades of the rhubarb plant.

Alternative Names:
Rheum officinale

Poisonous Ingredient:
  • soluble oxalate
  • unknown additional toxin
Where Found:
  • the leaf blade of the rhubarb plant
The leaf stalk is edible. This plant may have other names.
Symptoms:
Home Treatment:
Induce emesis (vomiting) unless the patient is unconscious or experiencing convulsions. Before inducing emesis, contact Poison Control to verify that is what should be done.

If instructed to induce emesis, proceed as follows or as otherwise instructed:

Give the usual dose of ipecac syrup: 15 milliliters (ml) or 1 TABLEspoonful for children and 30 ml (2 TABLEspoonsful) for an adult. Follow with 1/2 glass or 4 ounces (oz.) of water for children or 8 to 12 oz. of water for adults. Repeat 1 more time in 1/2 hour if emesis has not occurred.
Before Calling Emergency:
Determine the following information:
  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the plant and parts eaten
  • the amount swallowed
  • the time it was swallowed
Poison Control, or a local emergency number:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring plant with you to the emergency room for identification.
What to expect at the emergency room:
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
Expectations (prognosis):
Deaths have been reported but are rare.
Review Date: 1/14/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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