Rue (Ruta graveolens) – What It Is and Why People Talk About It

If you’ve ever browsed a herb shop or read a natural health blog, you might have seen the name rue. It’s a leafy plant that grows in Mediterranean climates and has a strong, bitter taste. Historically, Rue was used to ward off evil, treat headaches, and even as a cooking spice in some cultures. Today, many users turn to Rue as a supplement for its claimed anti‑inflammatory and hormone‑balancing effects.

Common Uses and Claimed Benefits

People mostly take Rue as a dried herb, a tincture, or a capsule. Here are the most popular reasons:

• Skin health: Some folk recipes mix Rue with aloe to calm acne or eczema.
• Joint comfort: The plant contains compounds that may reduce swelling, so a few drops of Rue oil are sometimes massaged into sore knees.
• Hormone balance: Traditional Chinese medicine lists Rue as a helper for menstrual irregularities, although scientific proof is limited.
• Digestive aid: A tiny amount of Rue tea is believed to ease bloating, but the taste can be harsh.

Remember, most of these uses come from anecdotal reports rather than large clinical trials. If you’re looking for a supplement, treat Rue as a complementary option, not a cure.

Safety First – Risks and Precautions

Rue can be powerful, and it’s not without side effects. The plant contains alkaloids and essential oils that can irritate the skin and stomach. Here’s a quick safety checklist:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid Rue entirely. It can trigger uterine contractions and may harm a developing baby.
• Skin contact: Direct handling can cause a rash or dermatitis. Wear gloves when you harvest or grind the leaves.
• Dosage: Stick to the amount recommended on a reputable supplement label. A typical dose is 200–400 mg of dried leaf per day, but many experts suggest starting at the low end.
• Drug interactions: Rue may interfere with blood thinners, antidepressants, and certain heart meds. If you’re on prescription drugs, ask your pharmacist before adding Rue.

If you notice nausea, dizziness, or a skin reaction, stop using Rue right away and talk to a healthcare professional.

Overall, Rue can be a useful herb when used responsibly. Focus on quality—choose products that list the botanical name Ruta graveolens and provide batch testing. Keep your dosage low, watch for reactions, and always consult a doctor if you have existing health conditions.

Got more questions about Rue or other herbal supplements? TinaMed’s team is here to help you make safe, informed choices for your health.