Asparagaceae
Butcher’s Broom
Ruscus aculeatus
✓ Generally Safe
Consult Doctor
Native to: Mediterranean Europe
Also known as: Jews Myrtle, Sweet Broom, Knee Holly, Pettigree
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Chronic venous insufficiency (multiple RCTs — reduces leg swelling, heaviness), varicose veins, hemorrhoids, orthostatic hypotension, leg edema in pregnancy. German Commission E approved.
Herbal Actions
Venotonic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, vasoconstrictive
Active Constituents
Steroidal saponins (ruscogenin, neoruscogenin), flavonoids (rutin, hesperidin), volatile oils, benzofurans
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1–2 tsp dried root per 250ml, simmer 10 min, 3x daily |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Standardized extract (9–11% ruscogenins): 150–300mg 2x daily. Effects 4–8 weeks. Combine with hesperidin and vitamin C. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid with MAOIs. Caution with antihypertensives. Caution in hypertension.
Side Effects: GI upset, nausea. Hypertension with very high doses. Rare allergic reactions.