Other names for Rue
certified organic rue dried herb liquid extract
certified organic rue extract
certified organic rue extractives
fresh rue
infusion (1:6000) of ruta graveolens
peganum harmala extract
peganum harmala l. extract
pegapump
rue
rue aerial parts extract
rue extract
rue extract, powder
rue fruiting top extract, fresh, undried
rue fruiting top (ruta graveolens) extract
rue fruiting tops (ruta graveolens) extract
rue glycerite liquid extract
rue herb extract, dry
rue liquid extract
rue, powder
ruta graveolens
ruta graveolens herb extract, dry
Synopsis of Rue
History
Rue (Ruta graveolens), a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, boasts a rich history of medicinal use dating back to ancient times. Revered by the Greeks and Romans, rue was valued for its broad array of therapeutic properties. Physicians such as Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder documented its use as a remedy for digestive complaints, respiratory issues, and to stimulate menstruation. In the Middle Ages, rue gained further prominence as a protective herb, believed to ward off contagious diseases and used in "vinegar of the four thieves," a famed plague remedy. Its bitter, aromatic leaves were commonly employed in teas or poultices for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to alleviate headaches, muscle spasms, and menstrual discomfort.
Rue's efficacy is largely attributed to its unique phytochemical profile, including rutin, flavonoids, and essential oils, which contribute to its antioxidant and circulatory benefits. In traditional herbal combinations, rue often features alongside other complementary herbs such as fennel, lavender, or sage, enhancing digestive and nervous system support. These combinations are found in both Mediterranean and European folk remedies, where rue’s synergistic properties are harnessed to improve their overall efficacy. Today, rue continues to be appreciated for its contributions to natural wellness, supporting healthy digestion, circulation, and emotional balance. When used judiciously and in proper formulations, rue remains a valuable component in herbal nutrition, exemplifying the enduring wisdom of traditional herbal medicine.
Traditional and scientific validation
Rue (Ruta graveolens) is a perennial herb traditionally used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures for culinary and medicinal purposes. Its historical use spans thousands of years, with references in ancient Greek, Roman, and Persian texts, where it was valued for its potential to support digestion, alleviate headaches, and promote overall wellness. In folk medicine, rue has been used as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial agent.
Scientifically, rue contains a unique spectrum of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils such as rutin and graveolin. These compounds have attracted interest for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that rue extracts may help reduce oxidative stress and modulate immune responses. For example, research has indicated that rutin, a key flavonoid in rue, can support vascular health and exert protective effects against cellular damage. Additionally, preliminary laboratory studies have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
However, robust clinical trials in humans are limited, and more research is necessary to validate the efficacy and safety of rue as an ingredient in nutritional products. While traditional and preclinical evidence is promising, effects in humans have not been conclusively established. Nonetheless, rue’s long history of use and its phytochemical profile make it a valuable botanical of interest in the development of new nutritional formulations. As research progresses, rue may continue to offer potential benefits as a supportive ingredient in health and wellness products.
Rue is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Afterbirth Pain (Traditional)
Amenorrhea (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Blood Poisoning (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Dysmenorrhea (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Fungal Infections (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Herpes (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Lice (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
Rue is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Capillaries (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Muscles (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
Veins (Traditional)