Ruta graveolens

alternative cosmetic and health ingredient

Ruta graveolens, commonly known as rue or common rue, is a perennial, aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Rutaceae family and is characterised by its blue-green, feathery leaves and small, yellow flowers. Ruta graveolens has a long history of traditional use in various cultures, where it has been employed for a wide range of medicinal and culinary purposes. In traditional medicine, rue has been used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues, inflammatory conditions, and nervous system disorders (Ziyyat et al., 1997; Stasiak et al., 2014). Recent scientific investigations have explored the potential therapeutic properties of rue, suggesting that it may possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, though its use should be approached with caution due to potential toxicity concerns (Mahmoud et al., 2020; Miraj et al., 2016). Additionally, rue has been explored for its potential use as a natural insect repellent and in the development of natural cosmetic and personal care products (Radulović et al., 2013; Bakkali et al., 2008).

References:

Ziyyat, A., Legssyer, A., Mekhfi, H., Dassouli, A., Serhrouchni, M., & Benjelloun, W. (1997). Phytotherapy of hypertension and diabetes in oriental Morocco. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 58(1), 45-54.

Stasiak, N., Kukula-Koch, W., & Glowniak, K. (2014). Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of Ruta graveolens L. extracts in relation to the plant development stage. Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica, 71(6), 1045-1053.

Mahmoud, I. I., Saleh, F. A., Al-Okbi, S. Y., Mohamed, D. A., & Hegazy, E. M. (2020). Phytochemical study, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of Ruta graveolens L. aerial parts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 257, 112844.

Miraj, S., Keivani, Z., & Hassanzadeh Nemati, Z. (2016). A review study of therapeutic and cosmetic effects of Ruta graveolens L. Der Pharmacia Lettre, 8(9), 168-174.

Radulović, N. S., Blagojević, P. D., Palić, R. M., & Stojanović-Radić, Z. Z. (2013). Volatile constituents of Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae). Pharmaceutical Biology, 51(12), 1545-1553.

Bakkali, F., Averbeck, S., Averbeck, D., & Idaomar, M. (2008). Biological effects of essential oils – a review. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 46(2), 446-475.