Rumex Species: Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Nutritional Potential for Food and Health Applications

Abstract

The genus Rumex (Polygonaceae), comprising about 193 species, is widely distributed across temperate and subtropical regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, and has long been used in traditional medicine worldwide. These species are rich in diverse phytochemicals, including anthraquinones, flavonoids, tannins, naphthalenes, and stilbenes, which contribute to a broad range of biological activities. This review provides an updated synthesis of current knowledge on the taxonomy, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Rumex species. Particular attention is given to R. dentatus, R. vesicarius and R. crispus, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Clinical and toxicological aspects, including oxalate accumulation and anthraquinone-associated adverse effects, are also discussed. Major research limitations include the lack of standardized extracts, insufficient clinical evidence, and poor bioavailability of key compounds. Enhancing bioavailability is vital because many bioactive compounds in Rumex are poorly absorbed and rapidly metabolized, which restricts their therapeutic potential. Environmental factors and phenological stages influencing phytochemical expression are highlighted as additional underexplored determinants of bioactivity. By integrating ethnopharmacological knowledge with experimental data, this review identifies future research priorities, including the optimization of formulation strategies, pharmacokinetic evaluation, and clinical validation. Collectively, these efforts may support the development of safe and effective Rumex-based nutraceuticals and therapeutic products.