The question of what is another name for Ruta leads to a rich history of folklore and herbal medicine associated with the plant Ruta graveolens. Beyond its scientific designation, the herb is most famously known as Rue. However, this is just one of many names given to it over centuries, each reflecting a different aspect of its complex and often contradictory reputation.
The Many Common Names of Ruta graveolens
The most straightforward answer to "What is another name for Ruta?" is Rue. The word Ruta itself derives from Greek, meaning “to set free,” possibly referencing its long-held reputation for freeing people from diseases. In various traditions, it was given names reflecting its perceived protective and purifying qualities.
- Common Rue: This is the most widely recognized common name for the herb.
- Garden Rue: A reference to its widespread cultivation in home gardens for ornamental, culinary, or medicinal purposes.
- Herb of Grace: This poetic name reflects its use in the Catholic church, where branches were dipped in holy water and used to sprinkle blessings. The name is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages.
- German Rue: A less common but occasionally used regional variant.
- Herbygrass: An old-fashioned term sometimes used to describe the herb.
- Ruda: The Spanish name for the plant, also sometimes called Ruda de Castilla.
Historical Uses and Folklore
Throughout history, rue's strong aroma and bitter taste, combined with its bioactive compounds, have made it a prominent feature in both medicine and magic. Ancient civilizations were well-acquainted with its properties.
Ancient and Medieval Applications
- Roman and Greek Medicine: Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder documented over 80 remedies containing rue. In ancient Greece, it was used as an antidote to poisons and to treat eye conditions.
- Menstrual Regulation: For centuries, it was used as an emmenagogue to stimulate menstrual flow. Historically, larger doses were also used as an abortifacient, a practice that highlights its potency and danger.
- Protection and Purification: In the Middle Ages, rue was believed to ward off witches and protect against the plague. Its use as the "herb of grace" in religious ceremonies symbolized purity.
- Repellent: Due to its potent scent, it was used to repel insects like fleas and beetles. The scent is often described as pungent or even malodorous by some.
Comparison of Rue's Historical and Modern Uses
| Feature | Historical Context | Modern Context (with caution) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicinal Use | Widely used for eye strain, pain relief, digestive issues, and menstrual regulation. | Primary use is in homeopathy for injuries to ligaments and bones. Not recommended for internal use due to toxicity. |
| Culinary Use | Used in ancient Roman and certain Mediterranean cuisines, often to flavor eggs, meats, and sauces. | Used sparingly in some traditional cuisines, but not for general cooking due to strong, bitter taste and toxicity. |
| Ornamental Use | Valued for its attractive blue-green foliage and yellow flowers in gardens. | Still grown as an ornamental plant and for its deer-resistant properties. Used as a host plant for swallowtail butterflies. |
| Safety & Toxicity | Potent but unregulated, leading to widespread use despite risks of severe side effects. | Strong warnings regarding handling (photodermatitis) and internal consumption (toxicity) are standard. |
The Critical Dangers of Ruta
Despite its historical uses, modern medicine and toxicology have identified significant risks associated with the plant. These risks are why most current recommendations are limited to ornamental gardening or highly diluted homeopathic preparations.
Photodermatitis
One of the most dangerous side effects of handling fresh rue is a phototoxic reaction known as photodermatitis. The plant contains furanocoumarins, which, when they come into contact with skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, can cause severe skin irritation, blistering, and burns. Individuals should wear long sleeves and gloves when working with the plant, especially on sunny days.
Internal Toxicity
Ingesting rue, especially in large doses, is extremely hazardous. Its volatile oil and other compounds can lead to serious health complications. Potential side effects from internal consumption include:
- Severe gastric pain, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Convulsions and hemorrhages
- Damage to the liver and kidneys
- Abortion in pregnant women due to uterine stimulation
- Multiorgan toxicity in severe cases
Modern Perspectives on Rue
Today, rue's use is largely restricted to controlled applications, particularly in homeopathy, where highly diluted preparations are used for specific musculoskeletal conditions. Some modern research has explored its potential effects, such as anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties in lab settings, but these studies use extracts and isolated compounds, not the whole herb. The general health community advises extreme caution and strongly discourages self-medication with rue due to its well-documented toxicity.
Conclusion: Caution is Key
In summary, the answer to what is another name for Ruta is primarily Rue, along with other historical names like Herb of Grace. While its storied past in medicine and folklore is fascinating, it is crucial to recognize that Ruta graveolens is a potent and potentially dangerous plant. The risks of severe photodermatitis from skin contact and serious organ damage from internal consumption are well-documented. Anyone considering using rue for any purpose beyond ornamental gardening should consult a healthcare professional and be fully aware of the significant risks involved. The historical reverence for this plant should not overshadow the modern understanding of its inherent toxicity. https://www.drugs.com/npp/rue.html
