Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis)
Photo: Roger Culos · CC BY-SA 3.0
- General
- 1 condition
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Overview
Goat's rue is a bushy perennial herb growing to approximately 3 feet in height, with compound leaves bearing lance-shaped leaflets, delicate pink pea-type flowers arranged on terminal spikes, and red-brown seed pods that form in autumn. Native to Asia and continental Europe and naturalized in Britain, it grows in damp and low-lying areas and is harvested in summer. Goat's rue has been widely cultivated as cattle feed. Its common name hints at its long association with livestock.
Traditional uses & properties
Goat's rue contains the alkaloid galegine. It should never replace diabetes medicines.
Safety & precautions
Use as part of the treatment of diabetes only under professional supervision. Do not use as a substitute for conventional antidiabetic medications. Monitor blood sugar levels closely when using goat's rue alongside diabetes medications, as it may have additive effects. Not recommended during pregnancy unless under professional guidance.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to Asia and continental Europe, naturalized in Britain. Goat's rue grows in damp and low-lying areas. The aerial parts are harvested in summer.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis) as follows: Goat's rue contains the alkaloid galegine. It should never replace diabetes medicines.
What safety cautions apply to Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis)?
Use as part of the treatment of diabetes only under professional supervision. Do not use as a substitute for conventional antidiabetic medications. Monitor blood sugar levels closely when using goat's rue alongside diabetes medications, as it may have additive effects. Not recommended during pregnancy unless under professional guidance.
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