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Butcher's Broom Herb -Benefits, Uses And Side Effects

Scientific name: Iuscus aculeatus

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, aromatic, cellular proliferator, diuretic, laxative (mild), vasoconstrictor.

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Butcher's broom (also called Jew's Myrtle, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Pettigree, Sweet Broom) is a small-leafed bush cultivated in the Mediterranean and Europe. It is part of the lilly family, and is quite similar to asparagus plant. Both the root and stem of the plant are used in herbal preparations.

Description

Butcher's Broom is an attractive, evergreen shrub, it has bright green, almost leafless stems; erect green branches from which oval leaflets grow, with bright yellow pea-like flowers, much favored by butterflies, blooms in April to June. The height ranges from 3-10 feet and can be trimmed back after flowering for a more compact shape. Unlike gorse, with which it is sometimes confused, broom rarely sports any prickles. The fruit is a brownish-black, shaggy pod contains 12-18 seeds. Requires full sun, prefers poor soil with perfect drainage.

Typical Dosage

Ointments and suppositories including butcher's broom are typically used for hemorrhoids. Encapsulated butcher's broom extracts, often combined with vitamin C or flavonoids, can be used for systemic venous insufficiency in the amount of 1,000 mg three times daily. Additionally, standardized extracts providing 50 - 100 mg of ruscogenins per day can be taken.

Uses and benefits of Butcher's Broom

• A great circulatory herb.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties (flavonoids and tannins) which help remove plaque in the vascular system. Used in cases of phlebitis.
• Tones and strengthens the vascular walls (arteries, capillaries and veins), thus used for varicose veins, hemorrhoids and post aneurysms.
• Increases circulation throughout the body, especially to the peripheral areas (e.g., brain, hands and feet).
• Antithrombotic (use to prevent postoperative thrombosis).
• Strengthens bones and connective tissue.
• Aids alkalization of the blood.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

• While no reports of toxic reactions have been reported, the safety of butcher's broom has not been carefully examined.
• Given its apparent ability to constrict vessels, people with high blood pressure or prostate problems should use the herb with caution.
• Combining MAO inhibitors with butcher's broom poses a potential risk of increased blood pressure. Consult your doctor for specific advice.