Butcher's Broom: Uses, Benefits, Precautions

According to Dr. Perry, Butcher's Broom has traditionally been used to support healthy circulation and may help with edema (swelling). It also contains naturally occurring compounds, including ruscogenins, which have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

In my own research, I also found that Butcher's Broom has been used in parts of Europe, Middle East and Africa to help support people experiencing hemorrhoids and the discomfort associated with gout.

Safety Considerations

Butcher's Broom is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when used as directed for short periods, generally up to three consecutive months. Because there is limited research on long-term use. As always, it's important to speak with your physician and a qualified herbalist before adding any new herb or supplement to your routine. What works well for one person may not be appropriate for another.

According to WebMD, side effects are uncommon but may include nausea or an upset stomach. There is not enough reliable research to determine whether Butcher's Broom is safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Out of an abundance of caution, pregnant or nursing individuals should avoid using it unless advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.

While Butcher's Broom has been studied for supporting healthy circulation and may help with symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, swelling, and related discomfort, these symptoms can also be signs of more serious underlying medical conditions, such as blood clots or other circulatory disorders. Again, it's always consult your physician before beginning any new herbal supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or take prescription medications.

If you'd like to learn more, here are a few great resources.

1) Healthline

2) WebMD

3) HealthyFocus

4) MedicineNet

Before adding any new herb or supplement to your diet, it's always a good idea to speak with a qualified healthcare professional. Here are a few people who can help you decide whether it's appropriate for you.

1) Champlain Center for Natural Medicine

2) Railroad Apothecary (Attention: they moved!)