Infusum Rhei. Br. Infusion of Rhubarb.
Related entries: Rhubarb
Tisane de Rhubarba, Fr.; Rhabarberaufguss, G; Infuso di rabarbaro, It.; Infusion de ruibarbo, Sp.
"Rhubarb, in thin slices, 50 grammes; Distilled Water, boiling, 1000 millilitres. Infuse in a covered vessel for fifteen minutes; strain while hot." Br.
In order that the rhubarb may be exhausted, it should be digested with the water near the source of heat, at a temperature somewhat less than that of boiling water. It is customary to add some aromatic, such as cardamom, fennel seed, or nutmeg, which improves the taste of the infusion and renders it more acceptable to the stomach. One drachm of either of these spices may be digested in connection with the rhubarb.
This infusion may be given as a laxative, and is occasionally used as a vehicle for tonic, antacid, or more active cathartic medicines. The stronger acids and most metallic solutions are incompatible with it.
Dose, one to two fluidounces (30-60 mils).
