BUTCHERS BROOM

Latin Name: Ruscus aculeatus

Alternate Names: Box Holly, Kneeholm, Kneeholy, Sweet Broom, Pettigree, Jews Myrtle

Family: LILIACEAE

Parts Used: Rhizome, above ground portion.

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Febrifuge, Laxative, Vasoconstrictor.

Internal Uses: Capillary Weakness, Chilblains, Diabetic Retinopathy, Dysmenorrhea, Edema, Frostbite, Gout, Hot Flashes, Jaundice, Phlebitis, Retinal Bleeding, Varicose Veins

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

Topical Uses: Hemorrhoids, Varicose Veins

Topical Applications: Ointment or suppository for hemorrhoids. Salve for varicose veins.

Culinary uses: Young shoots are edible. Cook like asparagus.

Chemical Constituents: Saponin glycoside (ruscogenin, neoruscogenin), resin, potassium salts.

Contraindications: Avoid in cases of hypertension.

Comments: Butcher's broom can be taken before surgery to prevent thrombosis. The plant has bright red berries. Butcher's Broom was once used to clean butcher's blocks, decorate meat for festivities and prevent vermin.

-- Phil in KS (cshomestead@planetkc.com), April 03, 2002