Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)

Yellow dock is an herb. The leaf stalks are used in salads. The root is used as medicine.

Yellow dock is used for pain and swelling (inflammation) of nasal passages and the respiratory tract, and as a laxative and tonic. It is also used to treat bacterial infections and sexually transmitted diseases.

Some people use yellow dock as a toothpaste.

Historically, yellow dock has been used for skin diseases, skin inflammation (dermatitis), rashes, a vitamin deficiency called scurvy, obstructive jaundice, and psoriasis with constipation.

How does it work?

Yellow dock contains chemicals called anthraquinones, which work as stimulant laxatives.

Constipation.
Inflammation of nasal passages and the respiratory tract.
Bacterial infections.
Jaundice.
Scurvy.

The appropriate dose of yellow dock depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for yellow dock. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Yellow dock is SAFE for most adults when consumed in amounts found in food. Taking too much yellow dock can cause diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, excessive urination, skin irritation, and low blood levels of potassium and calcium.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Taking yellow dock by mouth is LIKELY UNSAFE in women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. It has laxative effects, which are not desirable during pregnancy. Also, the chemicals that cause the laxative effects can be transferred to a nursing infant through breast milk.

Blood clotting problems: Yellow dock may speed up clotting. If you have a clotting disorder, get your healthcare provider's advice before starting yellow dock.

Allergies: People who are allergic to ragweed may also be allergic to yellow dock.

Gastrointestinal (GI) blockage: Don't use yellow dock if you have any kind of blockage in your digestive tract.
Stomach or intestinal ulcers: Don't use yellow dock if you have ulcers. Yellow dock can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestine, making ulcer symptoms worse.

Kidney disease: Yellow dock contains a chemical that can bind with calcium and form crystals that can damage the kidneys. If you have kidney stones or have ever had kidney stones, get your healthcare provider's advice before starting yellow dock.