Background

Rue (Ruta graveolens) is a perennial, evergreen shrub native to southern Europe. The parts that grow above the ground and the oil are used as medicine.

Rue contains chemicals that might have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

People use rue for cancer, indigestion, insect repellent, birth control, and many other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse rue with Goat's rue or Syrian rue. These are not the same.

Safety Safety definitions

When taken by mouth: Rue is commonly consumed in foods. It is possibly safe when products containing dried rue leaves are used as a medicine. It can cause cramps, drowsiness, and dizziness. But rue is likely unsafe when the fresh leaves or oil are used, or when the dried leaves are used in large amounts. These can cause serious side effects, including stomach pain, vomiting, kidney damage, breathing problems, and death.

When applied to the skin: It is likely unsafe to use fresh rue. It can cause a rash and blistering, which can become worse when exposed to the sun.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy: Rue is likely unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. It can cause contractions of the uterus, which might lead to a miscarriage. Taking rue to cause an abortion has led to death.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if rue is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Kidney problems: Rue can make existing kidney problems worse.

Liver problems: Rue can make existing liver problems worse.

Effectiveness

Dosing & administration

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of rue might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

Medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight (Photosensitizing drugs)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications might make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Rue might also make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Using these products together might increase the risk of sunburn, blistering, or rashes when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Be sure to wear sunblock and protective clothing when spending time in the sun.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.