Remedies Using Butchers Broom Herb

Butchers broom herb or sweet broom contains a steroidal saponin called ruscogenin which has shown to have anti inflammatory properties. This herb which comes from the ruscus aculeatus plant is also known as pettigree, knee holy, kneeholm and box holly. The stems of the sweet broom were used by butchers to sweep their stalls and that was how the herb got its name.

The part of the plant that is used for treating various conditions is the root. Besides saponin, sweet broom contains coumarin, flavonoids, glycolic acid sitosterol, sparteine and tyramine. There are also vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, niacin, riboflavin, selenium and zinc.

Sweet broom herb is used as a remedy to treat deep vein thrombosis, spider veins, varicose veins and lymphedema. It has also shown to have positive effects in preventing or providing relief from constipation and hemorrhoids. It is a mild diuretic agent and helps in increasing urine flow and preventing water retention.

Sweet broom root extract also helps improve blood circulation and is helpful in enhancing blood flow to the brain, hands and legs. It has the ability to tighten blood vessels and capillaries. Box holly extract is also beneficial in maintaining joint flexibility and preventing leg cramps.

You can make sweet broom tea by steeping a teaspoon of the dried root or root powder for 10 minutes. It helps clear phlegm and cough out mucus. The root extract is also available in capsules and liquid extract.

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