Overview

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.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for RUE overview.

Side Effects

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 and Warnings

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.
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.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight (Photosensitizing drugs) interacts with RUE

    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.

Dosing

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.

Next
View References

You Might Also Like

Preventing HIV: How PrEP Works
Explore Medicare Advantage & Prescription Drug Coverage
Navigating Life With Migraine
Alternative Treatments for Migraines
View More

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.