Rue
Also known as- Ruta graveolens, Common Rue, and Herb of Grace
Introduction
Rue has a long history of use in both medicine and magick, and is considered a protective herb in both disciplines. The hardy evergreen shrub is mentioned by writers from Pliny to Shakespeare and beyond, as an herb of remembrance, of warding and of healing. Early physicians considered rue an excellent protection against plagues and pestilence, and used it to ward off poisons and fleas. A Modern Herbal refers to the plantÍs ïdisagreeable odour and flavourÍ, but in truth, the bitterness of the leaves is only evident in large doses. In smaller amounts, it imparts a pleasant, musky flavor to cream cheeses and light meats.
Rue was once believed to improve the eyesight and creativity, and no less personages than Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci regularly at the small, trefoil leaves to increase their own. The legend of rue lives on in playing cards, where the symbol for the suit of clubs is said to be modeled on a leaf of rue. There are concerns that rue is poisonous and can cause violent gastric reactions when taken in large doses. In addition, some people are highly sensitive to the plantÍs oils and can develop a severe rash when they are exposed to it and then the sun.
Constituents
caprinic, plagonic, caprylic and oenanthylic acids - also a yellow crystalline body, called rutin
Parts Used
Leaves and stems
Typical Preparations
As a tincture, tea and seldom in capsules. Can also be made into a wash.
Summary
While rue has been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes, as well as in general use as a strewn herb to discourage pests, many modern herbalists suggest that it should not be taken internally. Despite this concern, small amounts of rue are often used in salads, egg dishes and cheeses in Mediterranean countries, and herbalists may prescribe it in low doses to help with a variety of gastro-intestinal ills. It is one of the most well-known of the magickal protective herbs and is often used in spells of warding and protection in modern magic.
Rue Health Benefits
Historically, Rue has been used to relieve the pain associated with the physical symptoms of complaints such as gout, rheumatism, and sciatica. Along with alleviating the uncomfortable effects of gas and colic, rue was thought to expel worms from the body. Throughout the years of its use, rue has been used to promote menstruation. It is also used as a digestive tonic and to stimulate the appetite. The herb is edible and often used in salads. It is a good source of flavonoids.
Preparations
Ruta graveolens can be used fresh or dried. A beneficial tea or
infusion can be sipped to calm the nerves, increase the appetite or to
ease croupy symptoms. An oil made with Rue can be applied to areas
suffering from sciatica or to ease chest congestion. Homeopathic
preparations are available to treat arthritis and joint pain.
Benefits of Rue;
food poisoning, salmonella, and bacterial infections in the intestines, urinary tract, and colon.Anti-Fungal Anti-Inflammatory, rheumatoid,Antispasmodic,menstrual cramps,Sedative,calming epileptic and hysterical attacks,antidote poisons,snake bite (cobra), insect bites and stings,Insecticidal
Precautions
Rue may be poisonous if ingested, and it is best administered by a practitioner familiar in this product. It should not ever be taken by pregnant women because of it may affect uterine contractions and blood flow. It should also be avoided by children and nursing women, and by those who are allergic to the plant.
May cause photo toxicity in some individuals.