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Butcher's Broom
(Ruscus aculeatus)
DESCRIPTION
Butcher’s broom was named thus because its branches
were traditionally used by butchers as broom straws. During
the mid-twentieth century, researchers discovered the active
ingredient (ruscogenins) in the butcher’s broom root,
rather than the plant itself. Today, the German Commission
E has approved it for the treatment of Haemorrhoids and Varicose
veins. Animal studies provide preliminary evidence of its
anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to induce vasoconstriction
in small veins (1, 2).
HERBAL USES
Popularised when French
scientists discovered its vasoconstrictive effects, butcher’s
broom dates back to the time of Greek civilisation when it
was used as a laxative and diuretic.
SUGGESTED INTAKES
Part of the plant used:
ROOT.
Oral dose supplying 50-100
mg of ruscogenins daily.
For Haemorrhoids, butcher’s
broom can also be applied as an ointment or in the form of
a suppository.
SUPPLEMENTAL USES
Butcher’s broom may
be used for the following:
Venous circulatory disorders
(3)
Haemorrhoids
Leg Cramps
Inflammation (Itching and swelling) (4)
SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS
Butcher’s broom appears
to be safe, rarely ever causing noticeable side effects. Detailed
studies on its safety have not yet been conducted.
Young children, pregnant
or nursing women, and patients with liver or kidney disease
should take precautions when using butcher’s broom,
as safety has not yet been established.
INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Certain sedatives, hypnotics,
and beta-adrenergic blocking agents can inhibit the herb’s
anti-inflammatory activity.
Cochicine and Ritodrine
Hydrochloride may interact with butcher’s broom.
REFERENCES
1. Bouskela E, et al. Effects
of Ruscus extract on the internal diameter of arterioles and
venules of the hamster cheek pouch microcirculation. J Cardiovasc
Pharmacol 22: 221-224, 1993.
2. Bouskela E, et al. Inhibitory effect of the Ruscus extract
and of the flavonoid heperidine methylchalcone on increased
microvascular permeability induced by various agents in the
hamster cheek pouch. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 22: 225-230, 1993.
3. Capelli R, Nicora M, Di Perri T. Use of extract of Ruscus
aculeatus in venous disease in the lower limbs. Drugs Exp
Clin Res 1988;14:277-83.
4. Cahn, Herold & Sanault. Antiphlogistic and anti-inflammatory
activity of F 191. Int. Symp. Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory
Drugs. Milano, 1964.
5. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Eds. Blumenthal
M, et al. Boston: American Botanical Council, 1998.
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