David L. Hoffmann BSc Hons MNIMHGalega officinalis
Papilionaceae
Names: French Lilac.
Habitat: Grows wild in Europe, naturalized in Britain.
Collection: The stalks with the leaves and flowers are gathered at the time of flowering, which is between July and August. Dry in the shade.
Part Used: Dried aerial parts.
Constituents:
- Galegine (=isoamyleneguanidine), its 4-hydroxyderivative and peganine
- Flavonoids
- Saponins
Actions: Hypoglycaemic, galactogogue, diuretic, diaphoretic.
Indications: Goat’s Rue is one of many herbal remedies with the action of reducing blood sugar levels. Its use is thus potentially indicated 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.
Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 1teaspoonful 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.
Hyla Cass MD
Daniel Redwood DC