Availability: March to September
What to look out for
Choose crisp stalks that are firm, tender shiny and plump. Also ensure the stalks are blemish free. Avoid large wilted leaves which may indicate that the rhubarb is less than fresh.
Storage
Fridge: Rhubarb can be easily stored in the fridge. To keep the stalks at their best place them in a bow or container with a bit of water at the bottom and a loose plastic bag at the top. This will keep the rhubarb fresh for around 1 week.
Freezer: Rhubarb also freezes well. To do so just chop the stalk into small pieces, roughly the size of a thumb, and then place the chopped slices into a freezer-safe bag.
Benefits
High in Antioxidants
Rhubarb is well supplied with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanin, which gives the rhubarb its red colour. All of these antioxidants possess in their core anti- cancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, therefore, helping in the fight against heart, cancer and diabetes diseases.
May Reduce Inflammation
As rhubarb is rich in antioxidants, these same components can be helpful to people who suffers from systemic inflammatory reaction syndromes. Also, rhubarb’s anti-inflammatory properties can potentially help with wound healing.
Support in Preventing Cancer
Oxidative stress and cell damage that is usually correlated with certain types of cancers in patients, may be addressed by the consumption of rhubarb due to its antioxidants fighting the free radicals inside the body.
Aid Digestion
Rhubarb is high in fibre, helping keep gut health and digestion.
Support Bone Health
An excellent source of vitamin K, a core vitamin for bone health and blood clotting, rhubarb may support the health of the bones by supplying this particular vitamin. Vitamin K can also help prevent osteoporosis.