Butcher's broom

Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is a low evergreen Eurasian shrub, with flat shoots known as cladodes that give the appearance of stiff, spine-tipped leaves. Small greenish flowers appear in spring, and are borne singly in the centre of the cladodes. The female flowers are followed by a red berry, and the seeds are bird-distributed, but the plant also spreads vegetatively by means of rhizomes. Butcher's Broom has been known since the ancient times for its medicinal properties.

Description

Butcher's Broom is a member of the Ruscaceae family. It is native to Mediterranean regions like southern Europe, north Africa, and southwest Asia. The plant grows to about 3 feet in height and has tough, erect, striated stems. The leaves are reduced to small, non-photosynthetic scales, and photosynthesis is carried out by the cladodes.

Uses

Traditionally, Butcher's Broom was used as a laxative, diuretic, and a remedy for circulatory diseases. It is also used in the treatment of hemorrhoids and varicose veins. The root is used to make medicine. Despite serious safety concerns, people take Butcher's Broom by mouth for symptoms of poor blood circulation, such as pain, leg cramps, leg swelling, varicose veins, and itching.

Cultivation

Butcher's Broom is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and shade. The plant is propagated by division of the rootstock in autumn or spring.

Research

Research on the medicinal properties of Butcher's Broom is ongoing. Some studies suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive effects, which could explain its use in treating circulatory diseases.

See also

• List of plants used in herbalism
• Medicinal plants