SORREL Overview Information
Sorrel is a plant. People use the above ground parts for medicine.
Be careful not to confuse sorrel (Rumex acetosa) with roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), which is known as Jamaican sorrel or Guinea sorrel.
Sorrel is used for reducing sudden and ongoing pain and swelling (inflammation) of the nasal passages and respiratory tract, for treating bacterial infections along with conventional medicines, and for increasing urine flow (as a diuretic). Sorrel is also an ingredient in the herbal cancer treatment Essiac.
In combination with gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and cowslip flower, sorrel is used orally for maintaining healthy sinuses and treating sinusitis.
How does it work?
Sorrel contains tannins, which have a drying effect to reduce mucous production.
SORREL Uses & Effectiveness 
Possibly Effective for:
- Inflamed nasal passage, or "sinusitis," when taken with gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and cowslip flower (SinuComp, Sinupret).
Insufficient Evidence for:
- Fluid retention.
- Infections.
- Other conditions.
SORREL Side Effects & Safety
Sorrel seems to be safe for most people when used in small amounts as part of a combination product containing gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and cowslip flower (SinuComp, Sinupret). There isn't enough information to know if sorrel is safe when used in medicinal amounts other than as part of the combination product. The combination product can cause digestive system upset and occasionally allergic skin rash.
When taken in large amounts, sorrel might increase the risk of developing kidney stones. There is also a report of death after consuming a large amount (500 grams) of sorrel.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of sorrel during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.Children: Sorrel might be UNSAFE in children when taken by mouth in large amounts. Sorrel contains oxalic acid. There is concern because a four-year-old child died after eating rhubarb leaves, which also contain oxalic acid.
Kidney disease: Large amounts of sorrel might increase the risk of kidney stones. Don’t use sorrel without a healthcare professional’s advice if you have ever had kidney stones.
SORREL Interactions
We currently have no information for SORREL Interactions
SORREL Dosing
The following doses have been studied in scientific research:
BY MOUTH:
- For sinus infections: A specific combination product containing 36 mg of sorrel, plus 12 mg of gentian root, and 36 mg each of European elder flower, verbena, and cowslip flower three times daily.
