Where can we get Emodin?
Emodin is a purgative resin that naturally exists in different plants. However, the Rhubarb plant (Rheum rhabarbarum) can extract the resin. This resin has several potential uses, and some of them include its use as a laxative and relieving the harmful effects of diabetes. Furthermore, Emodin is also partially used in the treatment of cancer.
Emodin is a natural compound belonging to the anthraquinone family. After the resin has been extracted and dehydrated, it has a dusty yellow crystallized appearance. While Although rhubarb can remove this compound, it is sometimes also acquired from sea-level and Japanese polygon.
What is the benifit of Emodin?
Traditionally, Emodin has been used therapeutically in the form of a purgative. The natural elements in the intestine decompose this compound into a simpler substance called aglycone, which works as a purgative inside the intestine in two different ways. Firstly, aglycone helps control the absorption and release of water in the intestine. Secondly, the Emodin strengthens involuntary muscle contractions within the intestine, thus allowing the passage of fecal matter through the intestine.
Emodin has another therapeutic but experimental use. This natural element can regulate type 2 diabetes. Emodin is also helpful in inhibiting the action of an enzyme that induces diabetes. As a result, this rhubarb extract can help govern insulin activity.
The scientists also explored the potential of this natural compound as an anti-cancer drug. People who have cancer often succumb to the disease when a localized carcinogenic tumor spreads throughout the body or in different parts of the body. During the studies, Emodin has shown some initial successes in inhibiting or preventing the spread of carcinogenic tumors in other body areas.
The mechanism of Emodin in preventing the spread of cancerous tumors is the ability of this plant-derived substance to hinder the cell-cell binding, which is essential for metastases and the power of cancer cells to penetrate other healthy cells. They influence and transport them all over the body.
What is the side effect of Emodin?
Despite the health benefits of Emodin, the use of this compound also translates into a series of adverse side effects. Ironically, a potentially dangerous side effect of Emodin is also one of the many uses of this compound. The use of this substance for a prolonged period or the oral use of Emodin in excessive quantities may modify this compound from a safe purgative to a chemical that has the potential to cause severe diarrhea. Therefore, it is advisable never to use this compound as a purgative for a prolonged period or in excessive quantities.
The other side effects of Emodinia include vomiting and nausea. Prolonged use of this medicine and stomach upset can also cause poor appetite. One can bypass the problem of vomiting by taking Emodin with a meal or a small snack.
Besides the side effects mentioned above, long-term use of Emodin or any other anthraquinone can potentially increase the risk of liver and kidney damage. However, scientists have yet to ascertain the reason for renal or hepatic impairment due to the long-term use of anthraquinones, including Emodin. If a person is taking this compound over the long term, it is essential to monitor the health and functioning of the liver and kidneys at regular intervals.
Side effects and precautions
Taking high doses of Emodin as a supplement or using this mixture for a prolonged period may cause diarrhea. So, if this compound is not taken in the right amounts and in the appropriate way, the very purpose of using it could prove to be a problem. Furthermore, Emodin can hurt our digestive system, leading to vomiting, nausea, and stomach upset.
At the same time, it is critical to remember that taking Emodin for a prolonged period may significantly affect our overall health. For example, the chronic use of this compound may increase the chances of developing conditions related to the liver and kidneys. So it is vital that in case you are already taking this medicine, you should monitor these organs regularly, mainly if you use the mixture for a prolonged period.
Before taking an emodin supplement for any medical purpose, check with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider to determine if this compound is suitable for you.
