Goat's rue
Other names for Goat's rue
certified organic goat\'s rue (galega officinalis) dried herb liquid extract
french lilac
galega officinalis
galega officinalis herb extract, dry
goat\'s rue
goats rue
goat\'s rue aerial parts extract
goat\'s rue extract
goat\'s rue extract, powder
goat\'s rue glycerite liquid extract
goat\'s rue herb concentrate, powder
goat\'s rue herb extract
goat\'s rue herb extract, dry
goat\'s rue powder
goat\'s rue, powder
organic goat\'s rue
organic goat\'s rue powder
Synopsis of Goat's rue
History
Goat’s rue (Galega officinalis) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Western Asia, renowned for its rich history in traditional medicine. Since the Middle Ages, goat’s rue has been valued by herbalists for its ability to promote lactation in nursing mothers—a use that inspired its common name, which means “goat’s herb.” It was often brewed as a tea or tincture to help stimulate milk production, a tradition still observed in some cultures today.
Beyond lactation support, goat’s rue has historically been used as a remedy for a variety of ailments. In folk medicine, it was administered to help manage high blood sugar and support urinary health, thanks to its diuretic properties. The plant’s notable compound, galegine, became a foundation for the development of modern antidiabetic drugs, highlighting its significant contribution to health science. Additionally, it has been used to support digestive health and to help balance hormonal activity.
Goat’s rue is often included in herbal combinations, synergizing with other botanicals such as fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel, especially in lactation formulas. These blends harness the gentle yet effective qualities of goat’s rue, providing holistic support for nursing mothers and contributing to overall wellness. Its positive reputation is bolstered by centuries of safe, practical use, making goat’s rue a cherished component in natural health and nutritional products.
Traditional and scientific validation
Goat's rue (Galega officinalis) is a traditional herb that has played a notable role in both historical and modern nutritional products. Historically, goat's rue was used in European folk medicine, particularly for its reputed ability to stimulate milk production in lactating women and livestock. Its folk use as a galactagogue has persisted for centuries, and it is still found in herbal blends intended to support breastfeeding mothers.
From a scientific perspective, goat's rue contains the compound galegine, which was the inspiration for the development of the widely used antidiabetic drug metformin. Early studies in the 20th century observed that extracts of goat's rue could lower blood sugar levels in animals, leading to modern research into its potential benefits for metabolic health. Some small-scale clinical studies and animal experiments have suggested that goat's rue may have mild hypoglycemic effects, supporting its traditional use in blood sugar management.
Additionally, goat's rue has been included in clinical research exploring its effects on lactation. Some studies have reported increased milk production in women taking goat's rue supplements; however, results are mixed and data remain limited. Overall, goat's rue is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts as a supplement, but more robust clinical studies are needed to firmly establish its efficacy and mechanisms of action.
Despite the need for further research, goat's rue continues to be valued in nutritional products for its historical significance and its promising, though not yet conclusively proven, benefits for metabolic and lactation health.
Goat's rue is used for these health conditions
Breast Milk (dry up) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Goat's rue is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Breasts (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
