Ruta

 ( Rutaceae Genera ) 

Ruta (commonly known as rue) is a genus of strongly scented evergreen , 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 leaf are bipinnate or tripinnate, with a feathery appearance, and green to strongly glaucous blue-green in colour. The are yellow, with 4–5 , about 1 cm diameter, and borne in cymes. The fruit is a 4–5-lobed capsule, containing numerous .

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Species , Plants of the World Online accepted ten species:

• Ruta angustifolia Pers.
• Ruta chalepensis L.
• Ruta corsica DC.
• Ruta graveolens L.
• Ruta lamarmorae Bacch., Brullo & Giusso
• Ruta lindsayi Turrill
• Ruta microcarpa Svent.
• Ruta montana (L.) L.
• Ruta oreojasme Webb
• Ruta pinnata L.f.

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Medicinal uses Extracts from rue have been used to treat eyestrain, sore eyes, and as insect repellent.

(2025). 9780192806802, Oxford University Press. . ISBN 9780192806802

Rue has been used internally as an antispasmodic, as a treatment for menstrual problems, as an abortifacient, and as a sedative.

(2025). 9780198504597, Oxford University Press. . ISBN 9780198504597

Ruta graveolens and Ruta chalepensis are often confused in scientific literature.

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Traditional uses Ruta is the national flower of Lithuania, many poems and songs have been written about it. Ruta is depicted in songs as a universal symbol – virgins wear it while expecting a baby boy, and a sprig of rue adorns weddings and engagements. In addition, the female name Rūta is quite popular in Lithuania. This perennial plant is also grown in America, Western Europe, Asia and even Africa. In the wild, it grows from the Canary Islands to the Mediterranean Sea. In general, rue has been known for many centuries. Even the ancient Greeks used it to treat many ailments.

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.

In Brazil the plant is called arruda, in Portuguese – is claimed to protect against the evil eye. Sephardic Jews also use the herb for protection against evil eye.

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.

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Precautions Caution should be taken with using rue topically. Applied to the skin Phototoxicity, the oil and leaves can cause blistering. 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. The mechanism of action is currently unknown.

Categories: Rutaceae Genera, Herbs, Medicinal Plants

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