Rehmannia Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Rehmannia is a Chinese herb traditionally used to support adrenal function, nourish the blood, and reduce inflammation.

Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa) is a staple of Traditional Chinese Medicine, commonly used to nourish the kidneys, support adrenal health, and promote vitality.

It contains iridoid glycosides, which may have anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic effects. Rehmannia is often included in formulas for fatigue, hormonal balance, and blood support.

Rehmannia is used for kidney and adrenal support. It is generally safe but may be unsuitable for people with weak digestion due to its rich, heavy nature.

Other names & forms of Rehmannia supplement : rehmannia glutinosa, di huang, rehmannia root, rehmannia extract

Benefits

Rehmannia contains iridoid glycosides such as catalpol, which support adrenal function and help regulate blood sugar by enhancing insulin sensitivity.

  • Helps maintain Blood Sugar Support by improving glucose metabolism and insulin response.
  • May support Hormonal Balance through adrenal tonic properties that reduce stress-induced hormone imbalances.
  • Contributes to Anti-Aging by providing antioxidant protection and supporting cellular repair.
  • Often used to support General Health by nourishing the kidneys and adrenals, promoting vitality.

Dosage

The dosage of Rehmannia supplement can vary based on personal requirements and recommendations:

  • Adrenal and kidney support: 1000–3000 mg/day of Rehmannia root (Shu Di Huang, raw or prepared).
  • Traditional decoction: 6–12 grams/day simmered in TCM formulas.
  • Capsule form: 500–600 mg, 2–3 times/day with meals.
  • Recommendation: Often combined with other herbs; avoid in spleen qi deficiency or loose stools.
Rehmannia dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Rehmannia is valued in traditional medicine for adrenal and kidney support, but you may experience mild effects as your body adapts. Watch for:

  • Possible mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or stomach cramps—especially on an empty stomach
  • Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
  • Temporary mild changes in blood pressure—monitor if hypotensive or hypertensive
  • Rare skin rash or itching—in those sensitive to Scrophulariaceae family plants
  • Transient fatigue or drowsiness during initial use

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Blood sugar medications: Rehmannia’s iridoid glycosides may enhance the effects of insulin or Cinnamon, increasing hypoglycemia risk—monitor glucose levels.
  • Anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies: Its mild antiplatelet action can add to warfarin or supplements like Garlic, raising bleeding risk—check INR regularly.
  • Diuretics and antihypertensives: Rehmannia may exert diuretic and hypotensive effects; when combined with furosemide or ACE inhibitors such as L-Arginine, monitor blood pressure and electrolytes.
  • Thyroid medications: Potential influence on thyroid metabolism; if taking levothyroxine, evaluate thyroid panels periodically.

Precautions

Before adding Rehmannia to your regimen, confirm none of the following apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with diabetes: May affect blood sugar; monitor and adjust medications as needed
  • People with kidney disease: Use under supervision—potential to alter renal function
  • Those on antihypertensive medications: Monitor blood pressure—may have mild hypotensive effects
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose supplements
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and fluid balance

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.


Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Rehmannia supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.