BUTCHER'S BROOM EXTRACT (ROOT)

Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is a small evergreen shrub native to Western Europe and North Africa, historically valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting vascular health. The extract is meticulously derived from the plant's root and rhizome, concentrating its beneficial compounds. Traditionally, it has been employed in European herbal medicine as a venotonic agent, renowned for its ability to promote healthy blood flow and alleviate discomfort associated with venous conditions. Modern extraction techniques ensure a standardized product, guaranteeing a consistent concentration of the key bioactive constituents, making it a reliable ingredient for contemporary supplement formulations aimed at enhancing circulatory well-being. Its long-standing use and recognition in traditional practices underscore its potential as a natural solution for vascular support, aligning with current demands for evidence-backed botanical ingredients. This foundational understanding sets the stage for exploring its specific mechanisms and benefits in detail.

The primary therapeutic effects of Butcher's Broom Extract are attributed to its unique class of steroidal saponins, specifically ruscogenins, which include neoruscogenin and ruscogenin. These active compounds exert their influence primarily on the vascular system. Research indicates that ruscogenins act by interacting with alpha-adrenergic receptors on venous smooth muscle, leading to vasoconstriction and improved venous tone. This mechanism reduces venous pooling and decreases capillary permeability, thereby mitigating fluid leakage into surrounding tissues. Clinical studies, such as a meta-analysis published in *Phytomedicine* (2000), have demonstrated that Butcher's Broom extract significantly reduces symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), including leg edema, pain, and feelings of heaviness. Its ability to support microcirculation and maintain the integrity of blood vessel walls is a cornerstone of its efficacy, offering a multifaceted approach to circulatory health.

Butcher's Broom Extract is a versatile ingredient commonly incorporated into formulations targeting various circulatory and vascular conditions. It is frequently found in dietary supplements aimed at supporting general cardiovascular health, alleviating symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, and managing discomfort associated with varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and even topical creams, its application versatility allows for broad market appeal. For optimal efficacy and consistency, high-quality extracts are typically standardized to a specific percentage of total ruscogenins, often ranging from 5% to 10%. Further scientific investigation, including a study in *Arzneimittel-Forschung* (1999), has underscored its role in improving microcirculation parameters and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which further contribute to vascular health by protecting endothelial cells. It is often synergistically combined with other bioflavonoids like hesperidin or diosmin, and vitamin C, to enhance its vascular protective effects.