The Magical Uses of Rue

Have you heard about the "magical" qualities of rue? Find out about the many amazing benefits and uses of rue in the following article.
The Magical Uses of Rue

Last update: 26 May, 2022

Perhaps you’ve heard of rue, an herb that can be collected in both “male” or “female” forms. Believe it or not, it’s said to have unusual effects. Discover the many powers and uses of rue in this article.

The Properties and Uses of Rue

Rue is a perennial, aromatic plant that has yellowish-green leaves and produces small flowers. It inhabits dry regions and adapts well to a Mediterranean climate. Rue is favored in many homes and gardens because of its strong aroma and ability to repel insects from certain crops.

Numerous ancient civilizations used rue and even worshiped its powers. The Romans cultivated this plant and carried it with them when they visited prisoners, because they believed it would ward off the “evil eye.” Meanwhile, the Chinese used it to counteract negative thoughts or wishes. Celtic magicians said that rue provided a defense against spells and could be used to promote healing. In addition, rue was sacred to the early Jews, Egyptians, and Caledonians, who believed that it was a gift from the gods.

In the early Americas, rue was used by indigenous communities to cast spells. They claimed that by placing a branch under the light of the moon before giving it to their beloved, one could win their heart forever.

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When and how should you plant rue?

It’s said that rue is much more powerful (in both the medicinal and the spiritual sense) if you collect a shoot from someone else’s garden. Then, you must ensure that the person who transplants it is the one who will use it later. This is because that person’s energy will remain within the leaves and stem of the plant.

Overall, here are the basic steps to planting rue that are believed to bring out its benefits:

  • Never plant this herb if you feel angry, depressed, or stressed.
  • Women shouldn’t plant rue during their period.
  • If you plant rue without believing in its special qualities or simply out of curiosity, you won’t see any effects.
  • Spend some time planting rue, but do not overdo it.
  • This plant requires a fair amount of sunlight and water.
  • There are two types of the rue plants: male (with large leaves) and female (with small leaves). Place your male plants on the left side of your garden, and female plants on the right.
  • Never plant rue in a place where cats are commonly present. However, it can be an excellent way to keep them from relieving themselves in a certain part of your garden. In addition, it also repels frogs.
  • If you notice that your rue plant is beginning to dry out or fade, don’t worry and do not try to save the plant. According to legend, this is a clear signal that it’s absorbing the negative energy in the environment around you and bringing you good luck.

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What are the medicinal uses of rue?

This herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. According to traditional healers, some of the uses of rue include:

  • It strengthens the arteries, protects capillary walls, and reduces varicose veins, edema, and other circulatory problems. In addition, it also prevents internal bleeding.
  • Rue benefits digestion by preventing stomach aches and heartburn, reducing gas and indigestion, and stimulating liver function. It’s best to consume this herb after overeating.
  • In addition, it has antispasmodic properties that help treat general cramping, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
  • Rue promotes healthy menstruation by increasing blood flow to the uterus. However, it’s not recommended during pregnancy because it could trigger a miscarriage.
  • It is used to reduce stress, anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia, thanks to its sedative effects.
  • Rue helps relieve pain from shock or strain, as well as reducing inflammation from rheumatism and arthritis.
  • It can promote weight loss and reduce fluid retention, as well as stimulate the release of fatty acids from tissues.

However, be aware that when rue is consumed in large quantities it can be toxic, particularly if the oil of the plant is ingested (this oil is only intended for external use).

You can prepare a tea using at most 12 rue leaves per liter of water. Boil this mixture and let it stand for ten minutes, then strain and drink a maximum of two cups per day.

What are the “magical” properties and uses of rue?

If you’re interested in the magic of legends and want to attract good energy to your home or workplace, you can take advantage of the following uses of rue:

  • It provides protection. One of the most widely-known benefits of rue is that it creates a protective field around the person who plants this herb.
  • It attracts positive energy. Sometimes, the plant causes the right person to come into our lives, whether in love, family, or at work.
  • It’s curative. Rue is beneficial in the treatment of various diseases and ailments, as we’ve explained above.
  • It combats negativity. Finally, if you’re living in an environment with bad energy, you can bring in a little rue to absorb the negative energy that’s disrupting your home.

All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Parray SA et al., Ruta graveolens: from Traditional System of Medicine to Modern Pharmacology: an Overview. American Journal of PharmTech Research 2012
  • Funk, J. L., & Vitousek, P. M. (2007). Resource-use efficiency and plant invasion in low-resource systems. Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature05719
  • Abbott, L. B., Lepak, D., & Daniel, D. L. (2007). Vegetative and Reproductive Phenology of African Rue (Peganum harmala) in the Northern Chihuahuan Desert. The Southwestern Naturalist. https://doi.org/10.1894/0038-4909(2007)52[209:VARPOA]2.0.CO;2

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.