Galega officinalis
Galega officinalis, also known as goat's rue, French lilac, Italian fitch, or professor-weed, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae, native to the Middle East, but has been naturalized in Europe, western Asia, and western Pakistan. The plant is considered an invasive species in many parts of North America.
Description[edit]
Galega officinalis is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 1 meter. The leaves are pinnate with 13-17 leaflets, each leaflet around 2-3 cm long. The flowers are produced in racemes 15-30 cm long, each flower 1-1.5 cm long, with five petals, the standard petal white, the wing petals pale purple.
Uses[edit]
Historically, Galega officinalis was used in medieval Europe to induce sweating and to increase milk production in cows. It was also used to treat the plague. In modern times, it has been investigated for its potential anti-diabetic properties.
Toxicity[edit]
Galega officinalis contains galegine, a substance that can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. Symptoms of poisoning include weakness, vomiting, confusion, and collapse.
Control[edit]
In areas where Galega officinalis is considered an invasive species, control measures include mowing, grazing, and the use of herbicides.
References[edit]
See also[edit]
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Galega officinalis
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Galega officinalis specimen
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Galega officinalis plant
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Illustration of Galega officinalis
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Detail of Galega officinalis
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Galega officinalis
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Galega officinalis
