Brand name: Butcher's Broom
Latin name: Ruscus aculeatus
Other names: Jew's Myrtle, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Pettigree, Sweet Broom
A Remedy For
Hemorrhoids
Vein problems
What It Is; Why It Works
Used by ancient Greek physicians as a laxative and a diuretic for flushing excess water from the body, Butcher's Broom fell into disrepute until the 1950s, when a French scientist discovered two chemicals from the plant's underground stem that cause blood vessels to narrow and help reduce inflammation. Herbalists then began recommending the plant to treat the itching and burning of hemorrhoids (distended veins in the anal area). More recently it has been used to help treat lower leg discomfort, including cramps, pain, itching, and swelling, caused by pooling of blood in the veins.
A perennial evergreen, Butcher's Broom has tough stems and rigid leaves that make it useful for sweeping.
Folklore tells us that bundles of Butcher's Broom were used to preserve hanging meat from mice, but more often the bundles were simply used to sweep butcher blocks clean. The plant grows throughout Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.
Avoid If...
There are no known medical conditions that preclude the use of Butcher's Broom.
Special Cautions
In rare cases, stomach problems may occur.
Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.
Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
No harmful effects are known.
How To Prepare
Butcher's Broom can be made into a tea using 2 to 4 teaspoons of twigs or 1 to 2 teaspoons of fresh underground stem per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 to 20 minutes before drinking.
Typical Dosage
Butcher's Broom is taken orally. The usual daily dosage is sufficient extract to supply 7 to 11 milligrams of the active ingredients.
Strengths of commercial preparations may vary. Follow the manufacturer's labeling whenever available.
Overdosage
No information on overdosage is available.