Syrian Rue
Peganum harmala
50 Seeds per packet
DISCOUNTED 2023 SEEDS
Peganum harmala, commonly known as Syrian Rue, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Nitrariaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, Middle East, and parts of South Asia.
Description: Syrian Rue grows to a height of 30-80 cm (12-31 inches). It has a bushy appearance with multiple branches. The leaves are deeply divided and can appear almost feathery. The plant produces small, white to pale yellow flowers with five petals. These flowers typically bloom in the spring and early summer. After flowering, it produces round, capsule-like fruits containing numerous small, dark brown to black seeds.
Habitat: Peganum harmala thrives in arid and semi-arid climates. It is commonly found in disturbed soils, roadsides, and dry, sandy areas. This plant is widely distributed across the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia.
Uses: Syrian Rue has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Its seeds contain harmala alkaloids (such as harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine) which are known for their psychoactive and medicinal properties. It has been used to treat various ailments such as digestive disorders, skin conditions, and as an analgesic. In some cultures, the seeds are used in religious and spiritual rituals due to their psychoactive effects. Due to its unique alkaloid content, Peganum harmala has been the subject of various pharmacological and botanical studies, exploring its potential therapeutic applications and its role in traditional medicine systems. The seeds of Peganum harmala are also used to produce a red dye known as "Turkish red" or "Syrian red," traditionally used in carpets and textiles.
Toxicity Caution: While it has medicinal uses, Peganum harmala is also known to be toxic in large doses. The alkaloids present in the plant can cause neurotoxic effects, and ingestion of high quantities can be dangerous.
Growth and Cultivation: The plant can be propagated through seeds. It prefers well-drained, sandy soils and full sunlight. It is drought-resistant and can survive in harsh, dry conditions with minimal water.
In summary, Peganum harmala, or Syrian Rue, is a plant with significant historical, medicinal, and cultural importance, known for its distinctive appearance and the potent compounds found in its seeds.
