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Herbs & Supplements
Ruda
Scientific Name: Rue
Other Names: Common Rue, Garden Rue, Herb of Grace, Herbygrass, Ruta graveolens, Weinkraut
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Uses
Note: Fresh rue contains volatile oils that can damage the kidneys or liver. Deaths have been attributed to the use of fresh rue.
Rue is probably best known for its effects on the female reproductive tract. Because chemicals in rue may stimulate muscles in the uterus, taking it may initiate menstrual periods, act as a contraceptive agent, and promote abortion. Additionally, rue is thought to contain chemicals that may decrease fertility and may also block the implanting of a fertilized egg. In male laboratory animals, oral doses of rue decreased the movement and number of sperm and reduced the desire for sexual activity. Even though rue is a mainstay of midwives in many developing countries, its risks generally outweigh any benefits it might have for contraception or abortion. Deaths have been reported due to uterine hemorrhaging caused by repeated doses of rue. Taking it orally is strongly discouraged.
Occasionally, rue oil is applied to the skin to relieve arthritis pain and also for treating soft tissue injuries such as bruises and sprains. Rue may contain chemicals that interrupt the body's release of nitric oxide and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2),which are both involved in producing inflammation, so it may have limited usefulness. Prescription or non-prescription anti-inflammatory drugs are more effective and safer, however.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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