The protective and toxic effects of rhubarb tannins and anthraquinones in treating hexavalent chromium-injured rats: The Yin/Yang actions of rhubarb

► We reported a plant remedy, rhubarb, to treat chromium nephrotoxicity (CrNT). ► Only the total tannins extracted from rhubarb protected rats against CrNT. ► Rhubarb tannins played as radical scavenger, reductant, and metal precipitant. ► The anthraquinones and tannins in rhubarb showed opposing effects (Yin and Yang).