There is no evidence that sheep sorrel can treat cancer, diarrhea, scurvy, or any other medical condition.
No scientific research has been performed with sheep sorrel, but scientists are familiar with how some of the natural compounds found in this plant work. The anthraquinones stimulate peristalsis in the gastrointestinal tract and increase the secretion of mucous and water into the intestine. This can cause a laxative effect. These compounds are also considered to be antioxidants and therefore may be able to neutralize free radicals, which can cause cellular and DNA damage in the body.
Purported Uses
To treat cancer
No scientific evidence supports this use.
To treat diarrhea
There are no data to back this claim.
To reduce fever
No scientific evidence supports this use.
To reduce inflammation
This use is not supported by research.
To treat scurvy
Sheep sorrel contains vitamin C, which helps prevent scurvy, but there are no human data.
Patient Warnings
Large doses of sheep sorrel may result in diarrhea, and cause kidney and liver damage.
Do Not Take If
You have a history of kidney stones
You are taking diuretics: Most diuretics cause potassium loss from the body, which can be increased by the laxative effect of sheep sorrel. This increases the risk of hypokalemia, or dangerously low blood potassium levels.
Side Effects
Upset stomach
Abdominal cramps
Diarrhea, possibly leading to dangerously low blood potassium levels
Kidney and liver damage
Special Point
Sheep sorrel is one of the four ingredients in Essiac.
Anthraquinones can cause discoloration of the urine interfering with urinalysis.
Derived from the aerial parts of the plant, sheep sorrel historically has been used to treat inflammation, scurvy, cancer, and diarrhea. It is also one of the four ingredients in Essiac(1).
The major constituents of sheep sorrel include anthraquinones, oxalates, and various vitamins (1).
There are no published trials evaluating the efficacy of sheep sorrel for any proposed claims.
Consumption of large doses may result in diarrhea from the anthraquinones and renal and liver damage from the oxalate content (2).
Purported Uses
Cancer treatment
Diarrhea
Fever
Inflammation
Scurvy
Mechanism of Action
The anthraquinones, including emodin, rhein, and physcion, stimulate peristalsis and increase the secretion of mucous and water into the intestine. They are also considered to be antioxidants and free radical scavengers. (1)
Contraindications
Patients with history of kidney stones should not consume this herb.
Adverse Reactions
Reported: Gastroenteritis, abdominal cramps, diarrhea leading to possible hypokalemia, renal and liver damage (2).
Herb-Drug Interactions
Diuretics: Potassium loss due to stimulant laxative effect can increase potential risk for hypokalemia.
Herb Lab Interactions
Anthraquinones can cause discoloration of the urine interfering with urinalysis (3).
