Butcher’s Broom

Butcher’s Broom is a small evergreen shrub native to Western Europe and has especially tough branches. The strange name comes from the fact that butchers would create brooms with it by bundling its branches to sweep off their chopping blocks. Beyond making a great broom, it has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years.

The root and rootstock contain various active compounds, including flavonoids and many others. These compounds may be the reason that butcher’s broom is linked to several potential health benefits, such as improved blood circulation and hemorrhoid treatment. Butcher’s Broom also contains chemicals called saponins that scientists think cause constriction of arteries and veins. Butcher’s Broom may also reduce inflammation and increase lymphatic flow, but these effects have not been fully confirmed in humans. Many formulations for treating Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) include Butcher’s Broom with other herb that help with blood circulation like horse chestnut extract.

Butcher’s Broom Uses

Butcher’s Broom has many uses but the most common are:

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) – Butcher’s broom is often used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, which is a condition that occurs when the veins in the legs are not able to properly circulate blood back to the heart. This can cause symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, and cramps. Butcher’s broom is believed to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help to alleviate these symptoms.
• Hemorrhoids – Butcher’s broom has also been traditionally used to treat hemorrhoids, which are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum or anus. The herb is believed to help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the affected area, which can help to relieve symptoms such as pain, itching, and swelling.
• Varicose Veins – Butcher’s broom is also commonly used to treat varicose veins, which are swollen and twisted veins that can appear blue or purple under the skin. The herb is believed to help strengthen the walls of the veins and improve circulation, which can reduce swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins.
• Menstrual Cramps – Butcher’s broom has been used traditionally to alleviate menstrual cramps, which are caused by contractions of the uterus. The herb is believed to help relax the uterus and reduce inflammation, which can help to alleviate cramps and other symptoms associated with menstruation.
• Edema – Butcher’s broom is also used to treat edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues. The herb is believed to have diuretic effects, which can help to increase urine production and reduce fluid retention.

Butcher’s Broom is also commonly used for:

• Orthostatic Hypotension
• Vision problems caused by diabetes (diabetic retinopathy)
• Swelling of the arms (lymphedema)
• Low blood pressure when getting up (orthostatic hypotension)
• Constipation
• Fluid retention
• Broken bones
• Circulation diseases
• Inflammation
• Blood Circulation

Side Effects of Butcher’s Broom

There are few human studies on Butcher’s Broom side effects, but it appears safe – with little to no side effects for most people. There has been one report of a woman with diabetes developing diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially fatal condition, after taking Butcher’s Broom. However, it’s unclear if Butcher’s Broom was the underlying cause.

One of the most common side effects of Butcher’s Broom is gastrointestinal distress. Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after taking Butcher’s Broom supplements. These side effects can be particularly troublesome for people who have pre-existing gastrointestinal issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.

Butcher’s Broom is known to have vasoconstrictor effects, which means that it can cause blood vessels to narrow and increase blood pressure. While this can be beneficial for conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency, it can be dangerous for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. People who have these conditions should consult with their doctor before taking Butcher’s Broom supplements.

Other reported side effects include:

• Stomach upset
• Nausea
• Although rare, some have reported stomach discomfort and even vomiting

Butcher’s broom is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is little research to support its safety in vulnerable populations.

Contraindications Related to Butcher’s Broom

Butcher’s Broom does contain saponins, plant compounds that can act as anti-nutrients. Therefore, Butcher’s Broom may reduce the absorption of minerals, such as zinc and iron. People taking kidney or blood pressure medication should speak to their doctor before taking Butcher’s Broom, as it may interact with these medicines.

Butcher’s Broom can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and medications for high blood pressure. If you are taking any medications, you should consult with your doctor before taking Butcher’s Broom supplements to avoid any potential interactions.

There is limited information available about the safety of Butcher’s Broom during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid taking Butcher’s Broom supplements without consulting with their doctor.

Origins of Butcher’s Broom

Native to the Mediterranean and Africa from the Azores islands (west of Portugal) to Iran.