Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus)

European herbalists have used Butcher's Broom for centuries to alleviate constipation and excess water retention. Butcher's Broom herbal extract may ease the swelling and pain of arthritis and rheumatism, and it works very well for people who are on their feet all day. It has been used in the treatment of varicose veins, spider veins, sores, hemorrhoids, thrombo-phlebitis, chilblains or swelling brought on by excess water and poor circulation and even blood clots in the legs. Because it encourages the flow of urine, it is useful for combating bladder and urinary tract infections and is also thought to enhance the health of the kidneys and bladder. Though it is not that common in the U.S., European hospitals use Butcher's Broom to prevent blood clots after surgery. The herb is said to have cleansing properties, particularly within the blood vessels, and maintain healthy blood viscosity and cholesterol levels. Scientists are investigating Butcher's Broom tincture for the treatment of orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure after standing or lying down). Butcher's Broom is said to enhance the blood flow to the legs, hands and brain. There are reports that Butcher's Broom is also a mood enhancer, providing a calming hormonal effect on teenagers during puberty and lessening the severity of mood swings. One of the other popular benefits of Butcher's Broom is that it can correct system imbalances that inhibit proper function of the bowels. This herbal remedy can correct constipation in a short period of time.

Butcher's Broom is thought to help orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon rising from a sitting position that causes dizziness and fainting) and is also well-known for its ability to treat Meniere's disease and vertigo. Chronic orthostatic hypotension can be a severely debilitating disease in the elderly, people with diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Parkinson's disease, scrofulous growths and in people who take medications that affect the autonomic nervous system.

 In clinical trials, Butcher's Broom was shown to reduce swelling after radiation treatment in the upper arm. It is also thought to ease swollen lymph glands caused by syphilis and may alleviate the pain and swelling in the carpal tunnel of the wrist, caused by repetitive motion. Butcher's Broom tincture can also increase the blood flow to the brain, legs, feet and hands. Research suggests that both orally and topically, Butcher's Broom extract can help to reduce the venous insufficiency-related pain, cramps, heaviness, itching and swelling in the legs and is reported to treat varicose veins and thrombophlebitis. By increasing circulation of the blood, Butcher's Broom may be of benefit in the treatment of disorders, such as Raynaud's disease or Buerger's disease.

This herb is commonly used to reduce the swelling and to treat the pain and swelling associated with arthritis and rheumatism. It works particulary well for those who stand on their feet all day.

European herbal doctors have used Butcher's Broom for centuries to alleviate excess water retention. Glycolic acid is another valuable constituent of Butcher's Broom that has a diuretic action and promotes weight loss and can be of great help for treating obesity. 

Butcher's Broom is ideal for eliminating fluid retention and due to its anti-inflammatory action it helps fight pain and is beneficial in the treatment of edema. It promotes bladder and kidney health and has been used in the treatment of kidney stones. With its ability to reduce water retention, it is beneficial for treating bladder infections and bladder stones as well as chilblains. 

The primary constituents of Butcher's Broom include steroidal saponins. This herbal treatment has been used to treat chronic venous insufficiency. This is a condition in which the veins are unable to perform effectively and carry blood back to the heart. It is quite a painful condition for those who are afflicted and those who have taken this herbal remedy have been very satisfied with its healing effects. As a result of having insufficient blood supply, blood clots can develop, another condition that Butcher's Broom has proven helpful in the treatment of. In Europe, a derivative of this herb is often used in hospitals to prevent the development of blood clots after surgery. Butcher's Broom is an anti-inflammatory that reduces blood vessel fragility and permeability and may be helpful when taken before and after surgery to prevent or minimize post-operative thrombosis, or blood clots. 

 It has also been found to be effective as a natural treatment for artherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), another dangerous disease of the heart that is caused by plaque building up in the walls of the arteries preventing proper amounts of blood to flow through. In cases where this herb has been used, the condition is actually reversed and in this way patients do not require open heart surgery to correct blockages. 

Butcher's Broom may be a beneficial treatment for swollen lymph glands. The anti-inflammatory effects can help to treat lymphedema, a condition that prevents normal drainage of fluids the the lymph nodes causing swelling to the extremities. It also acts to stimulate lymphatic flow, as noted by Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and was studied to on women who developed lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. In that study it was found to substantially reduce the swelling in the arms.

 It was approved by the German Commission E guidelines as an herbal treatment for hemorrhoids and herbalists have used Butcher's Broom for treating painful hemorrhoids for years since discovering that it tightens the dilated blood vessels that form hemorrhoids. It is believed to be particularly effective for easing the burning and itching sensations accompanying inflamed hemorrhoids. and is also beneficial for relieving constipation, so it will definitely take away the strain during bowel movements. Not being forced to strain will lessen the swelling of the veins which is the number one cause of pain for those who are afflicted. 

For maximum effectiveness of Butcher's Broom liquid tinctures and liquid extracts, vitamin C should be taken everyday, as well, since vitamin C can increase the potency against hemorrhoids and lymphedema. It is frequently combined with Witch Hazel in an ointment that can be locally applied to the anus area to bring relief of the pain that is caused by hemorrhoids.

Butcher's Broom tincture may be useful treat and prevent wet macular degeneration or any other forms of the condition. It is believed to promote blood vessel health and, therefore, may help prevent leaking blood vessels under the macula. 

This herb contains rutins and other and other flavonoids that increase blood flow to the brain, as well. There are those that testify Butcher's Broom extracts can help with mild depression, anxiety, mood swings and even the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

Butcher's Broom tinctures may also clear the chest from phlegm, thus relieving difficult breathing. It has been reported to work effectively, when combined with green or black tea, to improve inhalation and exhalation. 

Butcher's Broom is also an herbal remedy that has been prescribed by health care practitioners to help treat gangrene. Scientists have discovered that sparteine, one of the  main components of Butcher's Broom, inhibits the proteins in snake venom and is a potent treatment for detoxification of some snake bites. 

Ingredients:  Butcher's Broom, Distilled Water, 20% Alcohol.

Instructions: Use 6-12 drops in juice or water, under the tongue or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool dark place. Keep out of reach of children.

Contraindications:  Butcher's Broom Herbal Supplement is most effective when taken with vitamin C. Large amounts of Butcher's Broom (many times the recommended dosage) should not be taken, as it may cause vomiting, purging, low blood pressure and toxicity. Butcher's Broom should not be taken with high blood pressure medications nor with medications for benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) or MAO inhibitors. It is recommended that this herb be used under the supervision of a health care provider.

Disclaimer:  The information presented herein by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.