Canaigre

Scientific Name(S): Rumex hymenosepalus Torr. Family: Polygonaceae.

Common Name(S): Canaigre, ganagra, tanner's dock, wild rhubarb

Botany: Canaigre is native to the deserts of the south­western United States and Mexico. It is a member of the dock (sorrel) family, and can attain a height of 3 feet.

History: Canaigre has long been known as a practical source of tannin. The common name derived from the Spanish "Cana Agria" or "sour cane and extracts of the plant were used in the tanning industry. The plant was also the source of a mustard-colored dye. However, canaigre does not have an extensive history of use in herbal medicine. Instead, it became popular during the latter half of this century and today is promoted for the treatment of a variety of ailments. More recent promotions suggest that canaigre may be used as an inexpensive alternative to ginseng because of its ability to manage disease states. Canaigre is not related botanically to ginseng and there is no evidence of any beneficial effects associated with the use of canaigre.

Uses of Canaigre

Roots contain up to 25% tannin. The plant yields dye. It has in recent times been promoted as an alternative to ginseng

Side Effects of Canaigre

High tannin may pose carcinogenic risk. Ingestion should be avoided.

Toxicology: Although the petioles are edible like rhubarb, this practice is not widespread and no significant reports of toxicity have been associated with canaigre. Tyler notes that the high tannin concentration may pose a considerable carcinogenic risk. Consequently, the ingestion of canaigre should be avoided.

Summary: Canaigre is being actively promoted for the treatment of a variety of disease states. The plant con­tains high concentrations of tannin but appears to be otherwise devoid of significant pharmacologic activity. There is no evidence that canaigre contains the same pharmacologically active compounds as ginseng. Its high tannin content may pose a toxicologic risk and the ingestion of the plant should generally be avoided.