German Iris vs Eritrean Rue

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

German Iris

Iris germanica

Hormonal

Ruta chalepensis

Hormonal

German Iris

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Eritrean Rue

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Rhizomes of Iris germanica have been used in traditional perfumery and medicine for centuries, prized for the violet-scented irone compounds.

Sacred plant of Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Christians used medicinally as antispasmodic and abortifacient herb.

Active Compounds

irone, isoflavones, terpenes, irisin

rutin, chalepensin, graveolinine, alkaloids

Traditional Uses

perfumery fixative, digestive complaints, respiratory conditions, skin care

treatment of menstrual disorders, antispasmodic for stomach cramps, ceremonial use in Orthodox churches

Modern Uses

aromatic therapy, topical preparations, digestive aid

antispasmodic, emmenagogue, antimicrobial

Adult Dosage

2–4g dried rhizome powder daily

1-2g dried herb as tea; very small doses only

Contraindications

pregnancy, nursing, kidney disease

pregnancy - strongly abortifacient, liver disease, kidney disease

Side Effects

skin irritation, nausea, vomiting

severe uterine contractions, hepatotoxicity

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E