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Butcher's Broom

Also indexed as:Ruscus aculeatus
Butcher's Broom
: Main Image© Martin Wall
Botanical names:
Ruscus aculeatus

Parts Used & Where Grown

Butcher’s broom is a spiny, small-leafed evergreen bush native to the Mediterranean region and northwest Europe. It is a member of the lily family and is similar, in many ways, to asparagus. The roots and young stems of butcher’s broom are used medicinally.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Standardized extract providing 15 to 30 mg ruscogenins three times per day 3 stars[3 stars]
Butcher’s broom is a traditional remedy for CVI that has been backed up by clinical trials.
Atherosclerosis
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Butcher’s broom exerts effects that protect arteries.
Varicose Veins
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Supplementing with butcher’s broom may be helpful for varicose veins.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Butcher’s broom is so named because the mature branches were bundled and used as brooms by butchers. The young shoots were sometimes eaten as food. Ancient physicians used the roots as a diuretic in the treatment of urinary problems.1

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.