Evidence supporting the use of: Rue
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Rue (Ruta graveolens) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, for the management of dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Historical texts and traditional herbal compendiums describe the use of rue as an emmenagogue, believed to stimulate menstrual flow and relieve menstrual pain. The herb contains various bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils, which have been suggested to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties—mechanisms that could theoretically contribute to alleviating menstrual cramps. However, the clinical evidence to support these uses is very limited. Most modern pharmacological studies on rue have focused on its antimicrobial, antioxidant, or cytotoxic activities, rather than its effects on menstrual pain. While some animal and in vitro studies hint at antispasmodic effects, there are no high-quality clinical trials establishing its efficacy or safety for dysmenorrhea in humans. Furthermore, rue can be toxic at higher doses and is known to have side effects, including photosensitivity and potential hepatotoxicity. In summary, the use of rue for dysmenorrhea is justified primarily by traditional practices, with scant scientific validation and a need for caution due to potential toxicity.

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Products containing Rue

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