Butchers Broom
Butchers Broom Root
Also known
as- Ruscus aculeatus, Box Holly,
Jew's Myrtle, Kneeholm, Knee Holly, Pettigree, Sweet Broom, Rusci Aculeati,
Rusci Aculeati Rhizoma.
Introduction
Butcher's is a low, shrubby, evergreen plant of the lily family. At one time its stems were used to protect curing meats from rodents and to make brooms for butcherÍs stalls. The root is used in herbal medicine.
Constituents
Ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, calcium, chromium, chrysophanic acid, magnesium, manganese, niacin, riboflavin, ruscogenin, rutin, selenium, tin, zinc.
Parts Used
The washed and dried root, chopped.
Typical Preparations
Tea or extract. To make a tea from chopped root, place 1 teaspoon of the herb in a cup of boiling water and allow to steep in a closed teapot for 10 minutes. The teapot should not be heated. Strain before drinking.
Summary
A mild diuretic, butcherÍs broom was approved by the authoritative German Commission E as a supportive therapy for chronic venous insufficiency, a condition causing pain, swelling, and fatigue in the calves. Chronic venous insufficiency is related to varicose veins. The Commission also recommended butchers broom for treatment of hemorrhoids. At least one clinical trial found that butchers broom may relieve lymphedema (arm swelling) following treatment for breast cancer.
Precautions
Maximum safe doses for young children, pregnant or nursing women, and persons with liver or kidney disease have not been established.