Rue

History and Uses:
Rue is native to southern Europe and is used for its healing powers from China to Mexico. Do not confuse this herb with Goat's Rue, which is used to control blood sugar levels (and is an entirely different plant species). The herb was once thought to possess supernatural properties, having the ability to counteract witchcraft and malevolent spells. It was also thought to improve psychic abilities. The herb was prescribed in cases of vertigo and epilepsy in the seventeenth century, and in Italy, Rue has long been used to improve eyesight and is still eaten in salads for that purpose. The herb was also used to ease colic and reduce flatulence. In South America, Rue is often applied to the chest to relieve bronchitis and made into an ointment to relieve the pain of gout. Rural Europeans also use Rue to improve the health of livestock and to eradicate fleas. Today, Rue is most often applied for its calmative properties, being used in cases of nervous indigestion and heart palpitations. Rue has also been used to promote menstruation and, due to its antispasmodic qualities, to ease menstrual cramps. Rue is also said to be effective in combination with Kelp to promote a healthy heart. Tests have also shown that Rue may have significant contraceptive abilities and, in fact, was formerly used as a 'morning after' treatment. Many of Rue's positive benefits can be traced to its high concentration of the bioflavonoid, Rutin. Among other benefits, Rutin is known to strengthen blood vessels, thus reducing the likelihood of varicose veins and improving overall cardiovascular function.