Properties Of Rue

Rue is an herb that has historically been used for various health-related purposes.

In popular belief, rue is one of the most widely used or recommended plants for digestive processes and relaxation. In addition, its is advised to soothe various ailments of the body. In the next article, we’ll take a look at what the scientific evidence says about this herb.

This plant grows wild and can also be planted at home, whether in a vegetable garden, in a pot or in a garden. Although it has properties that give it certain medicinal benefits, we must be aware that many times it is attributed properties that have not been proven.

In any case, consulting a doctor is essential before resorting to rue, especially when there are considerable symptoms, either due to its intensity or its duration. Likewise, its use can in no way replace any medical treatment.

Natural properties of rue

A study published by the University of San Carlos de Guatemala gathers information from different authors on the components and benefits of this herb, in order to evaluate the medicinal use that has historically been made of it.

One of its most famous benefits has to do with the digestive system. According to this publication, rue helps prevent indigestion, gas, intestinal burning and stomach heaviness if it is used in diluted infusions after meals. It is also recommended for cases of diarrhea or stomach cramps.

On the other hand, it is also stated that rue has positive consequences for the circulatory system, tones the arteries and protects the capillaries. Following this criterion, it could be very good for treating problems such as varicose veins or edema. However, there is little scientific evidence to support these properties.

In relation to the female reproductive system, rue favors menstruation due to its emmenagogue principle. A publication of the Institute of Public Health of Chile attributes the property of regulating the menstrual cycle.

Beyond this, rue should never be used without first having precise indications from a specialist doctor, since its essential oil has abortifacient properties and reduces fertility. For this reason, its consumption is absolutely prohibited in case of pregnancy or lactation.

Other properties

The USCG publication cited above maintains that the use of rue is beneficial to the nervous system. Specifically, it could act as a sedative that reduces anxiety, nervousness and stress, as well as promoting rest. This source also records its potential use to lower cholesterol.

However, it is just as appropriate to note that rue can be harmful to the kidneys and liver, as well as having a hypotensive and neurotoxic effect. The latter is related to high-dose applications, which is why it is totally discouraged for patients who experience seizures or epilepsy.

Finally, it is often stated that rue has an antioxidant effect, something that could be supported given its content of flavonoids, which are metabolites present in plants that possess these properties.

Popular beliefs about rue at home

Popular beliefs say that rue must always be in the house. According to these versions that are transmitted from generation to generation (without scientific support), it offers the following advantages:

• It protects the home in a general way : according to the traditions of different cultures, it creates a protective field around whoever has it.
• Attract the positive : allow good or correct people to come to our environment, for friendship, love or work.
• It is said that the “most powerful” rue is the one that is taken from a foreign garden, although this is not decisive.

• You can plant it and take care of it yourself so that it transmits the positive energy and can repel the negative.
• Rue should never be planted when you are in low spirits, with physical ailments or if the woman is menstruating.
• It must always be sufficiently influenced by sunlight. It should be placed on the right of the orchard if it is female (very small leaves) and on the left if it is male (larger leaves).

It is advisable to touch the plant while visualizing what you want to achieve. These same popular myths maintain that when rue begins to wither, it is because well-being is already a fact, because it absorbs the bad from the environment.