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Rue |
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Rue
RUE
(Ruta graveolens)
History and Folklore
Looking at the feathery, bluish-green leaves and umbel-like flowers of this herb one would swear to have made the acquaintance of a type of Artemisia, a member of the compositae family. But appearances can be deceptive; Rue, in fact, belongs to the Rutaceae, which denotes it as a distant relative of citrus trees. It is at home in the eastern Mediterranean and appears to have been in cultivation for at least a thousand years. According to the bible, it was tithed in biblical times, a distinction reserved exclusively for cultivated garden plants.
In the days of antiquity Rue apparently enjoyed great popularity, despite its rather bitter and not exactly pleasant flavour. It seemed to have played a significant role as a culinary herb, especially in Roman cuisine. Today its culinary use has all but disappeared, though one might occasionally happen upon a dish spiced with it when travelling in Ethiopia, where it is even sometimes added as coffee spice. Here and there it may also still be used in remote cuisines of Italy. It must be said though, that for culinary purposes the fresh herb is preferable since most the essential oils disappear on drying, leaving mostly the bitter taste, rather than the more subtle aromatic component. Even the fresh leaves should only be used sparingly and should be removed after a few minutes. If left simmering too long the sauce or stew will turn bitter.
The ancients also praised Rue for its medicinal and magical uses. One of its alternative common names is 'Herb of Grace', which indicates its use as a sacred herb, which has been adapted by Christianity. Ancient writers report it being used to sprinkle holy water throughout the church to purify it. Rue does indeed seem to have purifying and protective powers, not just against spirit entities but also against the demons of disease. During the time of the plague, four unscrupulous thieves took advantage of the most helpless people - the dead and dying pest victims. They were protected from falling prey to the Black Death themselves by the power of a special herbal concoction, which became known as 'vinegar of the four thieves'. When they were finally caught the secret of their vinegar saved their lives yet again. Rue was part of the blend. Although modern herbalists don't pay too much attention to it, the ancients valued it highly for its power to resist all manner of poisons.
Medicinal Uses:
Although it receives but scant attention from modern practitioners, Rue possesses several interesting actions. Firstly, it has a very pronounced effect on the womb and thus should never be used during pregnancy. Before abortions became a legal and safe option Rue was used for this purpose. But it also tones the muscles of the womb and regulates suppressed menses, especially when associated with tension. It is insect repellent and anthelmintic and will get rid of worms. The ancients deemed it effective against all manner of poisons and used it as an antidote against the venomous bites of various creatures or any other hidden toxins lurking in the depth of their stomachs.
Rue was also said to protect the eyesight. Pliny reports that it was greatly valued for this purpose by artists, who ate the herb in the hope that it would impart clarity and vision. Rue can be used as eyewash, which is said to be particularly helpful in cases of eyestrain, where the musculature has become exhausted. It is used both, internally and externally for sprains and strains, as well as for rheumatic pains. The ancients used it in cases of dizziness, hysteria and epilepsy.
CAUTION
This herb is abortifacient and must never be used during pregnancy. Large doses are toxic and can be dangerous. As a member of the citrus family it contains compounds that can cause a phototoxic skin reaction and contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals, though this is usually only a problem with the fresh herb.
Magical Uses:
The ancients revered Rue highly for its powerful protective properties. It was said to be able to ward off even the devil himself. Rue could protect against the evil eye and against the demons of disease. It was used to clear the third eye and enhance inner vision. It may protect against nightmares and may be used to safeguard astral journeys. It can also be used for cleansing or consecrating a sacred space or ritual tools.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - d
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