I suppose older folk remedies are likely whole spectrum extracts from the seeds/plants. But testing with mainly one alkaloid in particular is also interesting for sure.
Elrik wrote:...Its probably a cultural bias but I get very nervous pouring anything in my eyes or ears
About concern what can go wrong with Syrian Rue, there's a document in attachment about it, the doses they speak of is actually ridiculous high to what we're used to and it's consumed, still non lethal in the end (with the exception of being an abortifacient due quinazolines).
In an ear it's more of a local effect. In eyes

I would be more suspicious.