Plant Profile: Rue

Rue

(Ruta graveolens)

Family: RUTACEAE

Energetics: Warming. 

Taste: Bitter. Pungent. 

Tissue States: 

Systems Affected: Uterus. Digestive system. Respiratory. Circulatory System. Tendons. Ligaments. 

Parts Used: Aerial (Above ground) Parts. 

Key Components: Volatile oils. Rutin. Furanocoumarins. Alkaloids. Tannins. 

Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Tincture:

Actions: 
Foundational: Aromatic. Bitter. Stimulant. Relaxant.
Primary: Abortifacient. Emmenagogue. Antitussive. 
Secondary: Antispasmodic. 

Uses: 

Mainly used to bring on (stimulate) and regulate absent or suppressed menstrual periods.

Stimulates peripheral circulation. Lowers high blood pressure. 

Relaxes smooth muscle. 

Eases griping and tension in the bowels. 

Chewing the fresh leaf can relieve tension headaches, and heart palpitations caused by anxiety. 

Arthritis pains that are aggravated by a cold, damp environment. 

Combines well with: False Unicorn Root. 

Identifying: 

Growing:

Harvesting: Collect aerial parts in the summer before the flowers open. 

Contraindications: DO NOT USE IN PREGNANCY. 

Sources: 

The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 310

The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 188 

The Earthwise Herbal: Matthew Wood. Pg 445-448

Studies:

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.