Ruscus aculeatus
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Butcher's broom Ruscus aculeatus |
Butcher's broom - Ruscus aculeatus (in the Liliaceae or Lily family)
Part used: Root.
Taste/smell: Soapy taste.
Dosage: Decoction: 1 heaping teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-3 times per day in a little water.
Use: (a) Anti-inflammatory, (b) Vasoconstrictor, (c) Antihemorrhagic.
Since butcher's broom acts upon the venous system, it is beneficial for varicosities, especially hemorrhoids. It reduces the swelling of hemorrhoidal varices and has a tonic effect on the rectal blood vessels.
The constituents, ruscogenin and neoruscogenin, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, vasoconstrictive activities and preventative and regressive effects in diabetic retinopathy.
Contraindications: Due to limited data, information is not available.