Emodin is a natural chemical supplement--called an anthraquinone--that is extracted from the root of the Turkish rhubarb plant (Rheum palmatum). The safety and effectiveness of this naturopathic treatment has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Emodin may help reduce inflammation and has been shown to destroy certain types of cancer cells. This natural supplement may be helpful in the treatment of specific medical conditions, including cancer, constipation, inflammation, microbial infections or peptic ulcers, explains the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Before beginning treatment, talk with a doctor about potential emodin side effects.
Nausea or Vomiting
While taking emodin, patients can develop stomach-related side effects because of treatment, explains Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Stomach upset symptoms can include nausea or vomiting, which can be uncomfortable and may contribute to a decreased appetite in certain patients. Consider taking emodin after eating a small snack or meal to prevent the development of these stomach-upset side effects.
Severe Diarrhea
Emodin is digested by naturally-occurring bacteria within the large intestine, reports Drugs.com, where it is converted to a substance called aglycone. Aglycone acts to regulate the way the large intestine absorbs and secretes fluids from the foods that a patient ingests and may increase the rate at which the muscular intestinal wall contracts. As a result, patients taking this type of supplement can experience sudden or severe diarrhea as a side effect of treatment. Diarrhea is characterized by frequent, watery bowel movements that can occur in conjunction with abdominal cramping, bloating or pain. These symptoms of diarrhea can also contribute to sensations of nausea in certain patients taking emodin.
Kidney or Liver Damage
Prolonged use of anthraquinones, such as emodin, have been associated with an increased risk of kidney or liver damage in certain patients, explain health officials at both Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Drugs.com. Though the cause of this damage is unclear, these side effects may lead to acute renal failure if left untreated. Further studies are required for researchers to determine the direct link between emodin use and kidney and liver damage.
Member Comments