Ruta



Ruta (commonly known as rue) is a genus of strongly scented evergreen subshrubs, 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.

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.

Medicinal uses
Extracts from rue have been used to treat eyestrain, sore eyes, and as insect repellent. Rue has been used internally as an antispasmodic, as a treatment for menstrual problems, as an abortifacient, and as a sedative. Ruta graveolens and Ruta chalepensis are often confused in scientific literature.

Traditional uses
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, according to folk tradition said to have been brought by West African slaves, the rue plant – locally called arruda, in Portuguese – is claimed to protect against the 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.

Precautions
Caution should be taken with using rue topically. Applied to the skin with sun exposure, 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.