Ruta (commonly known as rue) is a genus of strongly scented evergreensubshrubs, 20–60 cm tall, in the family Rutaceae, native to the Mediterranean region, Macaronesia and southwest Asia. About ten species are accepted in the genus. The most well-known species is Ruta graveolens (rue or common rue).
The leaves are bipinnate or tripinnate, with a feathery appearance, and green to strongly glaucous blue-green in colour. The flowers are yellow, with 4–5 petals, about 1 cm diameter, and borne in cymes. The fruit is a 4–5-lobed capsule, containing numerous seeds.
Since medieval times, rue has been used as an additive to wines (both white and red) to enhance its flavour and its keeping properties. The Dutch name wijnruit, translates as wine rue. In Italy, rue is added to grappa to produce Grappa alla Ruta. Rue's toxicity has long been known but since it appears to be slight it has been used as an additive in wine for a long time.
Traditionally, it has various health benefits including, digestive aid as it helps in stimulating digestion and alleviating stomach issues. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in curing joints pain and arthritis. It is used to regulate menstrual cycle and helps in relieve menstrual cramps. It also helps in reducing muscle spasms and cramps.[6]
Precautions
Caution should be taken with using rue topically. Applied to the skin with sun exposure, the oil and leaves can cause blistering.[7] Some people are much more sensitive than others. Exposure to common rue, or herbal preparations derived from it, can cause severe phytophotodermatitis, which results in burn-like blisters on the skin.[8][9][10][11] The mechanism of action is currently unknown.[12]
References
^"Ruta L.". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
^Furniss, D; Adams, T (2007). "Herb of grace: An unusual cause of phytophotodermatitis mimicking burn injury". Journal of Burn Care & Research. 28 (5): 767–769. doi:10.1097/BCR.0B013E318148CB82. PMID17667834.