Butcher’s Broom

Butcher’s broom has been found to be beneficial for a variety of circulatory problems including phlebitis, thrombosis, varicose veins, venous insufficiency, and even hemorrhoids. Butcher’s broom is considered particularly beneficial for preventing post-operative thrombosis—saponins in the herb lengthen the time it takes for blood to clot, thus helping to prevent venous obstruction.

Recent research shows butcher’s broom provides anti-inflammatory properties, due primarily to the presence of a saponin glycoside called ruscogenin. This and other saponins provide butcher’s broom with the ability to tighten veins (vasoconstriction) without raising blood pressure and reduce capillary permeability. Flavonoids, particularly rutin, in butcher’s broom also contribute to strengthening blood vessels and help prevent varicose veins from forming. These actions are beneficial for treating venous problems, including anal fissures, easy bruising, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins.

A randomized, double-blind study of 50 individuals suffering from varicose veins demonstrated that supplementation with butcher’s broom noticeably improved the participants\’ conditions.

Butcher’s broom contains glycolic acid which provides the herb’s mild diuretic properties. Butcher’s broom has been found to help eliminate accumulated lymphatic fluids in the legs, often resulting from menstruation, pregnancy, and prolonged standing. These trapped fluids can often produce a feeling of heaviness and swelling in the legs. Butcher’s broom may also be helpful for treating water retention and mild kidney dysfunction.

Some researchers believe the combination of glycolic acid and saponins in butcher’s broom may help reduce cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. Furthermore, butcher’s broom has been found to produce a mild laxative effect and increase perspiration. The herb’s high iron content may be helpful for treating iron-deficiency anemia, while its rich magnesium content helps alleviate dysmenorrhea and reduces leg cramps.

The saponin glycosides in butcher’s broom are similar to those found in licorice root and sarsaparilla. Research indicates ruscogenin and neo-ruscogenin, two of the saponin glycosides in butcher’s broom, are chemically similar to diosgenin found in wild yam.

Butcher’s broom is a rich source of chromium, cobalt, iron, manganese, silicon, zinc and vitamin B3 (niacin).

Some sources do not recommend butcher’s broom for individuals with hypertension.