Even though it smells bad, tastes very bitter, and has known toxic reactions, such as violent gastric pain, and photosensitivity, this plant surprisingly has a culinary use in several cultures—quite a contradiction! Rue (Ruta graveolens) is one of the “magical” herbs that have been both associated with witches and also repelling their magic since the Middle Ages. Other than its ease of cultivation, it seems strange this plant has had such staying power in so many cultures throughout the world.
Medicinal chemists are excited about Rue as it has a very large number of chemical compounds belonging to different classes of natural products. Some recent research is showing potential for its neuroactive and neuroprotection uses, as well as its use for promoting melanogenesis in vitiligo. However, most of Rue’s uses are not modern uses, yet it has a rich history in many cultures. This mysteriously appreciated plant has inspired prose, with mentions in Shakespeare, Gulliver’s Travels, Pliny the Elder, and also the Bible!
#rue #ethnobotany #ethnopharm
Photo by Amada44