THE MEDICINAL PROPERTIES AND USES OF THE ATQULAQ (RUMEX) PLANT

Abstract

The article examines the medicinal significance of atqulaq (Rumex), one of the widely distributed wild medicinal plants of the Karakalpakstan flora, the biologically active substances it contains, its therapeutic properties and the ways it is applied in folk medicine and modern pharmaceutics. The composition of the roots, leaves and seeds of the plant — organic acids, vitamins C, K and of the B group, carotene, tanning substances, anthraglycosides, essential oils and mineral salts of iron, potassium and calcium — and their effect on the human organism are analysed. Data are presented on the use of the plant in the treatment of diseases of the digestive tract, as well as on its haemostatic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action and on the methods of preparing a decoction from its roots and juice from its fresh leaves. The need for careful use because of the high oxalic acid content is also noted.