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

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

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

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

In areas where Galega officinalis is considered an invasive species, control measures include mowing, grazing, and the use of herbicides.

See also

• List of invasive species in North America
• Medicinal plants
• Invasive species

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