Rue

An herb that is an evergreen shrub containing may light green, aromatic leaves that become bluish green as it matures. Native to the Mediterranean region, Rue is grown widely in Europe and the U.S. as well. This herb provides a sharp, spicy, and mildly bitter flavor so it becomes difficult to match it with many foods but is found as a seasoning for some salads as well as an additive for some wines or spirits. In addition it is also an ingredient used in some sausage meats served in the Middle East, such as merguez. In times past, Rue was believed to have many medicinal qualities due to the alkaloids, flavonoids and the volatile oil it contained. However, medical experts now believe that there are too many risks with the use of this herb and thus urge caution when consuming it, especially in large quantities. It is considered to be a poisonous plant.