Rue: An Ancient Herb with Health Benefits

10. Toxicity and Side Effects

Little is known about the toxicity and safe dosage of rue essential oils. Rue was once used as an abortifacient — to terminate a pregnancy — and should be avoided by people who are pregnant.

A study on zebrafish showed that rue disrupted the endocrine system, including reproductive hormones, in the fish. While researchers have not thoroughly studied these effects on humans, take caution if you are planning to use rue as a home remedy. Most of the potential benefits above speak to future pharmaceutical and medical use, not home treatment.