Syrian Rue Seeds (Peganum harmala)

Syrian Rue (Peganum harmala) is a flowering plant native to the semi-arid steppes of the Middle East, Central Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Indian subcontinent. The seeds of Peganum harmala contain high concentrations of beta-carboline alkaloids — primarily harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine — which are reversible monoamine oxidase A inhibitors (RMAOIs) of significant interest to biochemists, pharmacologists, and natural products researchers.

Syrian Rue seeds have been used for over 2,000 years in traditional medicine and ritual practice across North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia under the names “Espand” (Persian/Afghan), “Harmal” (Arabic), and “Wild Rue.” In Persian and Afghan tradition, the seeds are burned as protective incense (Esfand), producing a distinctive smoke used for cleansing homes and warding off the evil eye. The seeds also produce a bright red-orange dye on protein fibers when used with an alum mordant — a traditional dyeing technique documented across Central Asia and the Middle East for centuries.

We offer whole dried Syrian Rue seeds, hand-cleaned and sorted, packed in moisture-sealed bags. Please check the legal status of Peganum harmala in your region before ordering — it is controlled in some US states and jurisdictions.