Butcher's Broom
Ruscus aculeatus
Butcher’s broom is a small evergreen shrub native to Western Europe and has especially tough branches. The strange name comes from the fact that butchers would create brooms with it by bundling its branches to sweep off their chopping blocks. Beyond making a great broom, it has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years.
The root and rootstock contain various active compounds, including flavonoids and many others. These compounds may be why butcher’s broom is linked to several potential health benefits, such as improved blood circulation and hemorrhoid treatment. Butcher’s broom also contains chemicals called saponins that scientists think cause constriction of arteries and veins. Butcher’s broom may also reduce inflammation and increase lymphatic flow, but these effects have not been fully confirmed in humans. Many formulations for treating Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) include butcher's broom with other herb that help with blood circulation like horse chestnut extract.
Uses
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
- Orthostatic Hypotension
- Vision problems caused by diabetes (diabetic retinopathy)
- Swelling of the arms (lymphedema)
- Low blood pressure when getting up (orthostatic hypotension)
- Constipation
- Hemorrhoids
- Fluid retention
- Broken bones
- Circulation diseases
- Inflammation
- Blood Circulation
Side Effects
- stomach upset
- nausea
- Although rare, some have reported stomach discomfort and even vomiting
There are few human studies on butcher’s broom, but it appears safe - with little to no side effects for most people. There has been one report of a woman with diabetes developing diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially fatal condition, after taking butcher’s broom. However, it’s unclear if butcher’s broom was the underlying cause.
Butcher’s broom is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is little research to support its safety in vulnerable populations.
Contraindications
Butcher’s broom does contain saponins, plant compounds that can act as antinutrients. Therefore, butcher’s broom may reduce the absorption of minerals, such as zinc and iron. People taking kidney or blood pressure medication should speak to their doctor before taking butcher’s broom, as it may interact with these medicines.
Origin
Western Europe