The purpose of Rue is its medicinal properties and use
Anna Schmidt
2026-03-23
3 min. read
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Traditional customs of the people bestowed upon the herb Rue the title of the symbol of purity and virginity. In many Saturday and wedding songs, the motif of planting these plants and creating garlands from them appears. Apart from its symbolic significance, the herb Rue was employed in folk medicine to alleviate ailments of the digestive and urinary tracts, as well as a pain reliever.
Verdant Trails
Currently overlooked in herbalism, the green pathway was once esteemed for its remarkable properties. Today, it is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant in home gardens and public parks. It thrives on every continent except barren Antarctica. This perennial species can grow up to approximately 100 cm tall. Its leaves are distinctively pinnate or bipinnate, while the flowers bloom in vibrant yellow hues, adding a radiant touch to any landscape.
Rue's therapeutic applications – medicinal effects
Rue is one of the oldest medicinal herbs used in diabetes treatment due to its guanidine derivative, which serves as a precursor for numerous blood sugar-lowering medications. The presence of chromium salts and this compound supports adrenal function and regulates blood glucose levels. Infusions of this plant are recommended for women experiencing severe menstrual pain, as it acts as an antispasmodic and relaxant. However, this benefit is accompanied by increased menstrual bleeding. Additionally, it is used for digestive disorders, as it has a calming and normalizing effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Rutin, originally isolated from rue, belongs to flavonoids with antioxidant and strengthening properties. It enhances vascular elasticity, prevents spider veins, and accelerates tissue healing. Furthermore, it reduces the toxicity of oxidized lipoproteins, preventing atherosclerosis. Preparations containing rue extract promote wound healing and cleanse the skin, making them suitable as a tonic for problematic skin.
Ruta uses and benefits – application guide
Ruta can be utilized for various therapeutic purposes, including bloating, digestive issues, and after consuming hard-to-digest meals. As an infusion, it is recommended for women with menstrual pain as a natural analgesic. When included in ointments or creams, it aids wound healing and acts as an antiseptic. Individuals with vascular conditions, spider veins, or bruises may benefit from Ruta preparations to strengthen blood vessels and reduce inflammation. However, prolonged use without medical supervision can lead to complications. Alcoholic extracts from Ruta should be avoided by those who frequently use tanning beds or sunbathe, as they increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation, potentially causing hyperpigmentation. Fresh Ruta may induce severe skin redness and itching, with resulting changes leaving permanent discolorations. The leaves of Ruta are believed to be the origin of the spade symbol in playing cards. Despite its many benefits, improper use of this plant can be hazardous.
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