Common Rue / Wynruit
The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only. This site merely recounts the traditional uses of specific plants as recorded through history. Always seek advice from a medical practitioner. Apple Tree Initiatives and its representatives will not be held responsible for the improper use of any plants or documentation provided.
Naturalists in ancient Rome, namely Pedanius Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, recommended combining rue with extracts of oleander (a poisonous shrub) and drinking the concoction as an antidote to snake bites.
Ruta graveolens contain flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties. It also has antimicrobial, antiplasmodial , free radical scavenging, and antioxidant properties. Rue contains alkaloids which may exhibit anticancer benefits. It also has antibacterial and antifungal activity that may prevent fungal and bacterial infections. It is an abortifacient, and is used to induce and increase menstrual flow, and cleanse the body.
Skin Benefits Of Rue
Rue oil is often used as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Due to its toxicity, rue is seldom applied to the skin directly. Yet, rue is known for some benefits for the skin:
1. Antifungal
Rue has antifungal and antibacterial properties that might protect the skin from eczema caused by Staphylococcus aureus, and other infections. Depending on the severity of the infection, rue can be used directly on the skin, especially when one is suffering from athletes’ foot. It also provides instant relief from itchy skin.
2. For Clearer Skin
Rue may also reduce the risk of additional skin diseases. This herb is also said to have free radical scavenging properties which suggests that it might protect the skin from UV damage. It may also be used as an anti-bleeder to heal wounds.
Hair Benefits Of Rue
3. For Lice Free Hair
Being an effective insecticide, rue essential oil and extracts are often used to get rid of a lice infestation. Regular use of this oil can repel those pesky little parasites from your hair and help you stay itch free!
4. Get A Spa Treatment
A number of spas use rue oil for hair treatment, to give you hair that shines with health. This is the perfect recipe for healing damaged hair.
Health Benefits Of Rue
5. Sedative
Rue is effective in calming hysterical and epileptic attacks due to its sedative properties (9). It helps in desensitizing and relaxing the nerves while inducing numbness because of its neurotoxin content.
6. Insecticide
Pests like mosquitoes, cockroaches and flies cause a number disease. These insects can be driven away with the use of Rue. It can also be used as vaporizers, fumigants, incense sticks and burners in-order to ward off insects.
7. Anti-Bacterial
Rue protects us from bacterial infections by killing bacteria with its antibacterial properties (3). It can be used in the preparation of tea to fight urinary tract, intestine, and colon infections. It also protects us from food poisoning and salmonella.
8. Anti-Spasmodic
If you suffer from muscle pain, you can try rue. It is an excellent remedy for muscle pain, anxiety and menstrual cramps. It also can be used for sprains and bone injuries.
9. Anti-Inflammatory
Rue can reduce inflammation mainly caused by arthritis or gout. It contains vitamin C which helps reduce inflammation. Regular intake of 1-2 cups of rue herb tea helps in easing stiff muscles, and fever and provides joint pain relief. Rue herb is also known for its expectorant properties and can also help with upper respiratory tract infection and inflammation and clears up your nasal air passages. You may use it for steam or aromatherapy to get relief from common cold and flu.
10. Remedy For Poison
Rue is known as an antidote to poison. It is highly effective on neurotoxins (E.g.: Snake bite, insect bite which are neurotoxin) but it cannot show any effect of haemotoxins.