Goat’s rue is derived from the dried, above-ground parts of Galega officinalis. It contains lectins, flavonoids, and the alkaloids galegine and paragalegine. May have diuretic and hypoglycemic activity and may also promote fat loss. The effect on blood glucose levels has been attributed to the galegine alkaloid constituent. Goat’s rue is available as dried leaves.

Reported uses

Goat’s rue is used as a diuretic and lactogenic in breast-feeding patients. It’s also used to reduce hyperglycemia and treat plague, fever, and snakebites.

Administration

A tea is prepared by steeping 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, and then taken by mouth twice a day.

Hazards

Goat’s rue has been associated with headache, weakness, and nervousness. It may interfere with effects of hypoglycemic medications. Children, pregnant patients, and breast-feeding patients should avoid use.

Safety Risk Fatal poisoning has occurred in animals grazing on goat’s rue. Signs and symptoms of toxicity include salivation, labored breathing, spasms, and paralysis as well as phyxiation leading to death.

Clinical considerations

• Goat’s rue may affect the intended therapeutic effect of conventional medications.
• Advise patient that goat’s rue isn’t recommended for the management of diabetes.
• If patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, advise her not to use this herb.
• Advise patient to keep goat’s rue away from children or pets.
• Tell patient to notify pharmacist of any herbal or dietary supplement that he’s taking when obtaining a new prescription.
• Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a treatment with proven efficacy may be available.

Research summary

Clinical trial data on goat’s rue platelet aggregation inhibiting, lactogogic, or diuretic effects is not yet available.