Although there are a number of Ruta species in the world, R. graveolens L., R. chalepensis L., R. montana (L.) L., R. angustifolia Pers. and R. pinnata L. fil. are the most studied. However, the first two of them have been the most extensively investigated for their chemical constituents and biological activities. They are used for their anthelmintic, diuretic, emmenagogue, and aphrodisiac properties. In dermatology, they are used against psoriasis and vitiligo, and as mycosis fungicides. In many countries, the plant extracts have been used as birth control agents
