Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Goat's-rue
MainColor	Violet
PlantType	Herb
Growth Type	Naturalized
Season	July
ImageUrl	Galega-001
Photographer	DP
Location
Human Toxicity	Mildly_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

A perennial herb in the pea family with pinnate leaves and clusters of lilac-blue to white pea-like flowers.

Distribution

Native to the Middle East and Europe, naturalized in some parts of North America.

Medicinal/Other Uses

Historically used for diabetes management; it contains galegine, which inspired the development of metformin (a key modern diabetes drug). Also used as a galactagogue (milk stimulant).

Edibility

Not edible – considered toxic in raw form.

Human Toxicity

Can cause nausea, weakness, low blood sugar, and even poisoning if consumed improperly.

Pet Toxicity

Toxic to pets (and livestock); ingestion may cause weakness, paralysis, or death.

Active Compounds

Galegine (toxic alkaloid), flavonoids, tannins.