Madder (Rubia tinctorum)

Madder (Rubia tinctorum) is a member of the Rubiaceae family, native to Mediterranean Region, Middle East, and Central Asia. Traditionally, its roots, stems, and leaves have been used for decoctions, infusions, and oil infusions.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and sedative actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.

Madder (Rubia tinctorum) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Madder (Rubia tinctorum) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Madder
Scientific Name	Rubia tinctorum
Plant Family	Rubiaceae
Genus	Rubia
Species	tinctorum
Native Range	Mediterranean Region, Middle East, Central Asia
Plant Parts Used	Roots, Stems, Leaves
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Sedative
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Oil Infusion

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Rubia tinctorum
Common Name: Madder
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Common Madder, Red Madder, Woad
Plant Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Rubia

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 centimeters.
Leaves: Simple leaves with upper surface reddish-brown and lower surface pale green, bearing distinct stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Flowers are bisexual, actinomorphic, with five petals, five sepals, and five stamens arranged in a spike, typically pink to red in color, bearing two stigmas and a superior ovary.
Stems: Climbing, cylindrical, woody, with opposite branching and smooth, glabrous surface.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ayurvedic Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Oil Infusion
Poultice

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: Commonly referenced as a moderate anti-inflammatory, in topical or internal use contexts.
Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a mild astringent, in tissue-toning contexts.
Sedative: As described in traditional systems, a gentle sedative, for relaxation-oriented uses.
Tonic: Historically regarded as a warming tonic, in whole-system applications.

Active Compounds

Tannin: A class of polyphenolic compounds commonly found in bark, leaves, and seeds.
Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.
Coumarin: Organic compounds biosynthesized as part of plant secondary metabolism.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Some general precautions have been associated with the use of this herb.
Contraindications: There is insufficient evidence to determine specific contraindications related to this herb.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: Available information regarding interactions with pharmaceutical drugs is limited.
Toxicity: The toxicity profile of this herb has not been clearly established.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction: Decoctions are made by heating plant material in water for an extended time.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Tincture: Tinctures are liquid extracts produced through alcoholic maceration.
Extract: Plant compounds are extracted using water, glycerin, or other solvents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.