Yellow Dock

Botanical name: Rumex crispus

Parts used and where grown

Yellow dock is found in many places throughout North America. The root of the plant is used in herbal medicine.

Yellow dock has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Poor digestion Skin conditions
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Science Ratings

Health Concerns

Poor digestion

Skin conditions

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars

Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star

For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Yellow dock has a long history of use as an alterative. Alterative herbs have nonspecific effects on the gastro-intestinal tract and the liver. As a result, they are thought to treat skin conditions attributed to toxic metabolites from poor digestion and poor liver function.

Active constituents

Yellow dock contains relatively small amounts of anthraquinone glycosides, which may contribute to its mild laxative effect.¹ It is also thought to stimulate bile production. It is often used as a digestive bitter for people with poor digestion. No human studies have been done on its use as medicine.

How much is usually taken?

A tincture of yellow dock, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 ml) three times per day, can be used.² Alternatively, a tea can be made by boiling 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of root in 2 cups (500 ml) of water for ten minutes. Three cups (750 ml) may be drunk each day.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Aside from mild diarrhoea or loose stools in some people, yellow dock is rarely associated with side effects.³

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with Yellow Dock.

References

1. Hoffman D. The Herbal Handbook: A User’s Guide to Medical Herbalism. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1988, 40.

2. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 274.

3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 274.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.