Medicinal Plants : Galega officinalis

Name

Goats Rue

Biological Name

Galega officinalis
Papilionaceae

Other Names

Goats Rue, French Lilac

Parts Used

Dried aerial parts

Active Compounds

Galegine (=isoamyleneguanidine), its 4-hydroxy derivative and peganine

Flavonoids

Saponins

Remedies For

Hypoglycaemic, galactogogue, diuretic, diaphoretic.

Goats Rue is useful for reducing blood sugar levels; thus in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. This must not replace insulin therapy, however, and should occur only under professional supervision. It is also an effective galactagogue, stimulating both the production and flow of milk, and has been shown to increase milk output by up to 50% in some cases. It may also stimulate the development of the mammary glands.

Description

Grows wild in Europe.

Dosage

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 teaspoonful of the dried leaves and let infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk twice a day.

Tincture: take 1-2ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.