I am a newly graduated herbalist here in the states and have been researching Goat's Rue (for its use in increasing mammary gland tissue for improved breastfeeding) for weeks now. I've yet to find any consistent information from any of my books, local herbalists, lactation consultants or naturopaths.

From what I read, its a commonly used herb in Europe, mostly France so I was hoping someone could assist me since there is absolutely NO information about it here in the states.

Does anyone have any studies, articles or other resources that discuss the use of goat's rue, especially during pregnancy? I'm out of research options here and don't know where else to turn.

I would be grateful for any help you could provide, thank you for your time.

Dear Pamela

There's an article on herbal remedies for pregnancy and babies in the latest Herb Society journal (September-December 2012). Whilst it doesn't mention the use of goat's rue it might be an idea to contact the author who is a medical herbalist in London. Her name is Ellie Holly: ehollyhealthcare@gmail.com

Good luck!

Gwenneth

look at fenugreek

The absence of research data on Galega seems reason enough not to use it to mess with human pregnancies. What is known is that it has an erratic effect on blood sugar levels and given the prevalence of Diabetes 2 in pregnant women, recourse to the nearest maternity clinic seems essential.
As far as it being a "commonly used herb in Europe, mostly France", I can only speak from personal experience, but I know that neither my ex-wife has used it to increase the yield of her sixty milking goats in the Corbières, nor did my daughters, one of which has her own herb farm, use it in the course of rearing my six grand children.
The only French reference to the plant I can find is in Dodoens ed L'Ecluse, who, deriving his text from the obscure Baptista Sardus, suggests giving to children as a precaution against epilepsy. He also says that it is a good herb against poison and plague. This last may be echoed in the current Larousse "Fleurs Sauvage" which tells us that "Cette plante est connue en medecin pour faire baisser La fièvre". Nevertheless, I would be inclined to take the whole thing with a pinch of salt.