Botanical Overview
Ruta graveolens, commonly known as Common rue, belongs to the Rutaceae family. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, Southern Europe, and parts of West Asia. The leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant are used medicinally. It has a long history of use in traditional Western herbalism and other systems for its multiple therapeutic properties.
Energetics
Ruta graveolens is considered cooling and drying in nature, with a bitter and pungent taste. It exhibits descending and outward directionality and has a relaxing tonicity, primarily influencing the body’s qi.
Primary Actions
- Antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Emmenagogue
- Nervine
- Carminative
Indications
Western
- Muscle spasms
- Menstrual disorders and dysmenorrhea
- Digestive cramps and colic
- Rheumatic pain
- Headache
- Skin inflammation and infections
Syndromes
- Dysmenorrhea
- Colic
- Mild anxiety
- Topical infections
- Mild rheumatism
TCM
No well-established indications found.
Ayurveda
- Vata disorders
- Menstrual irregularities
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Ama accumulation
Unani
- Flatulence
- Menstrual pain
- Rheumatism
Syndromes
- Mafasil (joint disorders)
- Ishq al-bawl (dysmenorrhea)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The main phytochemical constituents include furanocoumarins, alkaloids, flavonoids, essential oils, and rutacridone, which contribute to the plant’s antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 0.5-2 mL 1-3 times daily
- Infusion 1-2 g dried herb in 150 mL water, 1-2 times daily
- Topical preparations for skin infections and inflammation
Safety & Contraindications
Ruta graveolens is toxic at high doses and can cause photosensitivity, dermatitis, gastrointestinal irritation, and uterine contractions. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to abortifacient effects and potential neonatal risks. Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney disease. Avoid concurrent use with photosensitizing drugs and uterine stimulants due to additive effects.
Astrological Correspondences
Ruta graveolens is astrologically associated with the planetary rulers Saturn and Mars, reflecting its influence on boundaries, discipline, and energy. Elementally, it corresponds to Earth and Fire, signifying its grounding yet stimulating properties.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of Europe by J. M. Bruneton (1995)
- European Medicines Agency – HMPC Assessment Report on Ruta graveolens L. (2013)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Ruta graveolens by Azeem et al. (2019)
- Planetary Herbalism: The Astrological Roots of Herbal Medicine by Michael Tierra (2002)