butcher’s broom Roots – Ruscus aculeatus

Description

butcher’s broom contains antioxidants and minerals. . Butcher?s broom root is harvested for its diuretic and vasoconstricting qualities. In Europe, the herb is approved by the German Commission E for chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. The effect of butcher?s broom on blood vessels is due to the presence of several steroidal saponins, most notably ruscogenin and neoruscogenin.

As a dietary supplement, butcher?s broom root is a good source of the antioxidants beta-carotene, rutin and vitamin C, as well as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and other trace minerals. In ancient Greece, butcher’s broom was used to treat a wide variety of problems having to do with blood vessels such as varicose veins. It was also used by the Romans as well for circulatory problems. Now people continue to use it to treat those problems and more.

Butcher’s broom can be used externally or taken internally. How you use it depends on what you’re using it for. If you’re suffering from varicose veins or have general problems with poor circulation in your legs, you’ll want to use butcher’s broom in the form of an ointment. Applied directly to the skin it can provide relief to your circulatory issues. Consult a health care practitioner before using this herb if you have a history of high blood pressure. May increase the effects of diuretic medications.