Butcher's Broom Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Butcher's Broom is a plant used to support circulation, reduce swelling, and improve venous health.

Butcher’s Broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is a traditional European herb used to support blood circulation, particularly for chronic venous insufficiency and hemorrhoids.

It contains ruscogenins, which may help tighten blood vessels and reduce swelling. It is commonly taken in capsule or cream form to promote vein health and relieve leg discomfort.

Butcher’s Broom is used for varicose veins, leg fatigue, and hemorrhoids. It is generally safe, but individuals with high blood pressure should use it under medical supervision.

Other names & forms of Butcher's Broom supplement : ruscus aculeatus, butcher's broom root, butcher's broom extract

Benefits

Butcher's Broom contains ruscogenins, compounds that help strengthen blood vessel walls, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.

  • Supports healthy Blood Flow & Circulation by reducing swelling and preventing fluid from leaking into tissues.
  • May help alleviate Pain Relief associated with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.
  • Contributes to Skin Health by reducing inflammation and improving microcirculation.

Dosage

Individuals often adjust the dosage of Butcher's Broom supplement according to their specific health objectives:

  • Circulation and vein health: 150–300 mg/day of Butcher’s Broom extract (standardized to 10–15% ruscogenins).
  • Typical use: 100 mg twice daily for chronic venous insufficiency or hemorrhoids.
  • Whole root powder: Less commonly used; extract preferred for efficacy.
  • Recommendation: May be combined with horse chestnut or hesperidin for better results.
Butcher's Broom dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Butcher’s Broom supports healthy circulation, but as you begin taking it, mild effects may arise. Watch for:

  • Possible gastrointestinal discomfort—nausea or mild cramps—especially if taken on an empty stomach
  • Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
  • Mild urinary urge—diuretic effect—leading to increased frequency of urination
  • Rare skin rash or itching—in those sensitive to Ruscaceae family plants
  • Temporary mild increase in blood pressure—monitor if prone to hypertension

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Venotonic and vascular drugs: Butcher’s Broom’s aescin may enhance effects of pentoxifylline or supplements like Bilberry, improving circulation—monitor for hypotension.
  • Diuretics and antihypertensives: Its vasoconstrictive action could counteract diuretics like furosemide; monitor blood pressure and fluid status when combined.
  • Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents: Butcher’s Broom may inhibit platelet aggregation, compounding warfarin or Garlic, increasing bleeding risk—check INR.
  • Topical corticosteroids: When used concomitantly with creams, aescin may alter skin permeability; space applications to avoid enhanced absorption.

Precautions

Before adding Butcher’s Broom to your regimen, confirm you’re not in any of the following groups. If you are, check with your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with hypertension: May raise blood pressure slightly; monitor closely and adjust dosage if needed
  • People with urinary tract obstructions: Diuretic effect may exacerbate; avoid if you have kidney stones or blockages
  • Those on anticoagulant medications: Potential to affect clotting; monitor parameters and use under supervision
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited data; best to avoid high-dose supplements unless advised by a professional
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and bleeding risk

Studies

These studies provide scientific insights into Butcher's Broom benefits:

A 2014 randomized, double-blind crossover trial in 40 healthy adults found 500 mg/day Butcher’s broom extract for 6 weeks reduced leg swelling scores by 32% versus 12% with placebo (P < 0.01).

A 2008 randomized trial in 100 chronic venous insufficiency patients showed 300 mg/day for 12 weeks improved venous refilling time by 26% and reduced leg pain versus placebo (P < 0.05).

Despite traditional use for hemorrhoids, no RCTs have evaluated Butcher’s broom for anorectal disorders in humans.

No trials have assessed its effects on peripheral arterial disease or neuropathic edema.

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.

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Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Butcher's Broom supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.