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Butcher’s Broom (Ruscus aculeatus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Liliaceae (formerly Asparagaceae)
  • Common Names: Butcher’s Broom, Knee Holly, Box Holly
  • Parts Used: Rhizome, Root

Description

Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher’s Broom, is a small evergreen shrub native to Europe and the Mediterranean region. Traditionally, its rhizomes and roots have been used to support circulation, particularly for conditions like varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and poor circulation in the lower extremities.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European herbal medicine as a circulatory tonic.
  • Traditionally employed to relieve symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, leg swelling, and varicose veins.
  • Applied externally and internally for hemorrhoid relief.
  • Used as a mild diuretic to reduce water retention and swelling.

Constituents

  • Steroidal saponins (ruscogenin, neoruscogenin)
  • Flavonoids
  • Coumarins
  • Alkaloids
  • Essential oils

Actions

  • Venotonic (Supports blood vessel health)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent
  • Diuretic
  • Mild vasoconstrictor

Medicinal Uses

1. Circulatory Health:
Butcher’s Broom is commonly used to strengthen blood vessels and improve venous circulation, making it beneficial for chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.

2. Hemorrhoid Relief:
Taken internally or applied externally to reduce swelling and discomfort from hemorrhoids.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Used to alleviate inflammation and swelling, particularly in the legs and lower extremities.

4. Diuretic Properties:
Helps reduce water retention and supports kidney function.

5. Orthostatic Hypotension:
May help regulate blood pressure and prevent dizziness upon standing.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction (Tea from Root/Rhizome):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried root per cup of water. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Capsules/Powder:

  • 250-500 mg daily.

Topical Use:

  • Extracts or creams containing Butcher’s Broom are applied to affected areas for vein and skin support.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.
  • High Blood Pressure: May cause mild vasoconstriction; individuals with hypertension should monitor their response.
  • Blood Clotting Disorders: Consult a healthcare provider before use if on anticoagulant medications.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Used as a blood vessel tonic and anti-inflammatory herb.
  • Traditional European Medicine: Recommended for circulation and fluid retention.
  • Ayurveda: Warming and drying; balances Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

Combinations

  • For Varicose Veins: Combine with horse chestnut and gotu kola.
  • For Hemorrhoid Relief: Combine with witch hazel and calendula.
  • For Water Retention: Combine with dandelion and nettle.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots and rhizomes are collected in autumn and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried roots and extracts in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Ruscus aculeatus’s venotonic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Butcher’s Broom remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for circulatory health, varicose veins, and fluid retention.