Posted 3/16/07 |
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| NAME: | Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus)
Also called: Jew's Myrtle, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Pettigree, Sweet Broom. |
 Butcher's Broom Ruscus aculeatus |
| DESCRIPTION: | Botanical; extract of plant (Ruscus aculeatus Linn.).
Butcher's Broom is a relative of the lily family. Its name refers to the historical use of the shrub's foliage as a scrubber to clean the cutting boards of European butchers. |
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| FUNCTION: | This herb, according to the German Commission E, has been used to help with problems with the veins (vasculature), including chronic venous insufficiency (a condition related to varicose veins - symptoms of which include pain, swelling and fatigue in the calves) and hemorrhoids (for which it is sometimes applied as an ointment or used in suppository form). It also has a long history of traditional use in the treatment of urinary conditions. | |
| SOURCES: | Butcher's Broom is a low, shrubby, evergreen plant that looks somewhat like holly. It orginated in areas around the Mediterranean Sea. | |
| DOSAGE: | A daily dose equivalent to 7-11 mg of ruscogenins is a standard dose noted by the German Commission E. | |
| DATA: | Several studies have proven Butcher's Broom's effectiveness in treating chronic venous insufficiency.
Animal studies have shown effects such as an increase in venous tone, reducing fever, diuretic effects and an electrolyte-like reaction on capillary walls. |
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| CAUTIONS: | In rare cases, some have experienced nausea or gastric disorders.
Due to its tightening effect on blood vessels, Butcher's Broom may worsen high blood pressure. This herb should not to be confused with the toxic botanical, Scotch broom, which is of a different family. |
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| FOR MORE INFORMATION: |
The noncommercial site DrugDigest.org has a thorough entry on Butcher's Broom. | |
| RELATED PRODUCTS: |
Butcher's Broom Extract (NYBC). Each bottle, 90 capsules. Each capsule, 500 mg of extract, standardized to 10% ruscogenins (the natural "active ingredient"). | |
| PRODUCT NOTES: | Suggested use is one capsule, 1-2 times daily with meals. | |
| DISCLAIMER: | These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. | |
