Last verified: today
Dock Extract
Also known as: Rumex crispus, Yellow Dock, Curly Dock, Rumex obtusifolius, Broad-leaved Dock, Dock Root Extract
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional herb used for digestion and iron absorption. Very limited clinical evidence supports its use.
-
What it does
Dock extract comes from plants in the Rumex genus, most commonly Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus), which has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. It is primarily associated with...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Dock extract comes from plants in the Rumex genus, most commonly Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus), which has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. It is primarily associated with digestive support, mild laxative effects, and liver or blood-cleansing uses in folk medicine traditions. Some traditional practitioners also use it to support iron absorption, as the plant contains tannins and anthraquinones that may stimulate bile flow and gut motility — though no clinical trials were available to confirm these effects.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to detox your blood or liver in any clinical sense. No evidence it treats anemia or meaningfully boosts iron levels on its own. Won't cure skin conditions despite traditional claims. Not a substitute for medical treatment of digestive disorders.
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or bioavailability data available from provided studies or indexed clinical trials.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Contains anthraquinones and oxalates, which can be harmful in high doses or with prolonged use — especially for people with kidney disease or kidney stones
- No standardized dosing exists, making it easy to over- or under-dose from commercial products
- High oxalate content may interfere with calcium absorption and worsen kidney stone risk
- Laxative effects from anthraquinones can cause electrolyte imbalances if used chronically
- Appears in over 1,000 registered supplement products despite virtually no clinical trial evidence — a major marketing-to-evidence mismatch
Research Sources
- General knowledge — no papers were provided. Limited published research available.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25