Rue

Other names: Ruta graveolens, Herb-of-Grace

Element: Fire

Planet: Mars (was grown at temples to Mars)

Zodiac: Debated

Ritual uses include: Cleansing; warding; purification; against evil eye

Rue has a very long history of use throughout the world, and was often grown alongside Parsley. It is used in many cleansing ceremonies, and has been identified as a sacred herb by many different cultures. Despite this wonderful reputation, Rue is not safe for human consumption and has been known to cause complications in pregnancy. It has a strong herbal aroma that has notes of raisin or currant when dried.