The 8 Best Butcher’S Broom Supplement of 2024 available in India: With Complete Review and Buyer’s Guide

Introduction

Also known as Butcher’s broom, Ruscus aculeatus is a plant native to Europe and Asia. Butcher’s broom supplement has been used medicinally for centuries to treat various conditions, including varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and poor leg circulation. The butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) gets its common name from its traditional use by butchers, who used the plant to clean their cutting boards and knives. Chemicals in the butcher’s broom might cause the blood vessels to narrow or constrict. This might improve blood circulation in the legs.

The stiff, needle-like leaves of the plant were believed to have a cleaning and scouring effect, similar to a scrub brush, which made them useful for removing blood and other debris from butchering equipment. Butcher’s broom supplements are typically made from the plant’s root and are available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, teas, and creams. They are sometimes combined with other ingredients, such as horse chestnut, to enhance their effectiveness. This blog will share all the essential information about the 8 best butcher’s broom supplement in India.

 

Let's take a deep dive into these 8 best butcher's broom supplement in India

Tips for choosing the right butcher's broom for you

The root of the butcher’s broom plant is rich in a group of compounds known as saponins, which are believed to be responsible for their medicinal properties. Obtaining these compounds from the roots is usually done through extraction and purification.

The first step in the process is to harvest the roots of the butcher’s broom plant. This is typically done in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant. The roots are dug up, cleaned, dried, and stored for later use. Once the roots have been dried, they are ground into a fine powder. This powder is then used to make supplements, such as capsules and tablets. The powder can also be used to make teas and tinctures.

Several different types of butcher’s broom supplements are available on the market. Some of the most common include

Capsules and tablets: 

These are the most popular forms of butcher’s broom supplements. They typically contain the powdered root of the plant, which has been encapsulated or compressed into tablet form. The dosage of these supplements can vary depending on the brand, so it’s important to follow the instructions on the label.

Teas: 

Butcher’s broom can also be brewed to make tea. The dried root of the plant can be steeped in hot water to make a tea that is thought to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

Tinctures: 

Butcher’s broom tinctures are made by steeping the plant’s roots in alcohol. This extract is then concentrated and mixed with water or glycerin to make a liquid supplement. Tinctures are often considered to be more potent than capsules or tablets, as the alcohol helps to extract more of the active compounds from the plant.

Topical cream/ ointment: 

Butcher’s broom is also used topically by applying an ointment or cream to the skin. This is especially useful for treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins, as it can be applied directly to the affected area.

Others: 

They are also available as combination supplements such as Butcher’s broom with Horse chestnut, which is believed to enhance their effectiveness.

Things to remember while buying butcher’s broom supplement:

Check the label: 

Look for supplements that have been standardized to contain a specific amount of active ingredients, such as ruscogenins. This ensures you get a consistent amount of beneficial compounds in each dose. The active ingredients in butcher’s broom supplements are thought to be compounds called ruscogenins, which are a group of steroidal saponins compounds. Ruscogenins have been found to have anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties, which are thought to be responsible for the medicinal benefits of butcher’s broom.

Butcher’s broom supplements also contain flavonoids, a group of naturally-occurring compounds with antioxidant properties. These compounds may help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Additionally, the supplement may contain a compound called sparteine, a steroidal alkaloid that acts as a vasoconstrictor and weak inhibitor of certain smooth muscles.

Be aware of fillers:

Some supplements may contain fillers or other ingredients you may want to avoid. Be sure to read the label carefully and avoid products that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Fillers are substances added to supplements to bulk up the product, make it easier to handle during manufacturing, and/or help form the product. In most cases, fillers are considered inactive ingredients and do not provide therapeutic benefits.

Some joint fillers used in dietary supplements include

• Starch is a plant carbohydrate and is often used in capsules and tablets. It is generally considered safe, but it can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
• Microcrystalline cellulose is a compound made from wood pulp and is often used as a filler in capsules and tablets. It is also considered safe and is often used as a bulking agent in food products.
• Silica is a naturally occurring mineral often used as an anti-caking agent in powders and granules. It is generally considered safe and used in various food and cosmetic products.
• Magnesium stearate is a chemical compound made from magnesium and stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid. It is often used as a lubricant in tablets and capsules to prevent ingredients from sticking to manufacturing equipment.
• Titanium dioxide is a white powder used as a whitening agent, sunscreen, and filler.

Consider the form: 

Consider the supplement that will be most convenient for you, whether capsules, tablets, teas, tinctures, or creams. Capsules and tablets are the most popular forms of butcher’s broom supplements. These supplements are convenient to take, as they can be easily swallowed with water. Capsules and tablets also tend to be more stable than other supplements, such as teas and tinctures, which can degrade over time.

Capsules and tablets also offer precise dosing, and the dosages are typically standardized to contain a specific amount of active ingredients, such as ruscogenins. This allows for more consistent dosing and helps ensure the supplement is effective.

Quality assurance: 

Check for certifications or seals of approval from third-party organizations such as USDA, FDA, or GMP that assure the quality and purity of the product.

Check the dosage: 

Follow the instructions on the label to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs, and consult with your healthcare professional if you are unsure.

Brand reputation: 

Research the brand and check customer reviews. Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality products.

Benefits of using butcher's broom

It’s important to note that while butcher’s broom may have potential benefits, it’s not a substitute for medical treatment. You should consult your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or treatment. However, Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) has been used medicinally for centuries to treat various conditions and is believed to have several benefits when taken as a supplement. Some of the most commonly reported benefits of butcher’s broom supplements include

 

Improving circulation: 

Butcher’s broom is thought to have a vasoconstrictive effect, which means it can help to constrict blood vessels and improve blood flow. This is particularly beneficial for people with varicose veins or poor leg circulation.

Reducing inflammation: 

The compounds in butcher’s broom, particularly ruscogenins, are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Treating hemorrhoids: 

The butcher’s broom’s anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties may help reduce pain and swelling. The topical cream/ointment form of butcher’s broom is beneficial for this purpose. The plant’s compounds may also help to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve circulation, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

Relief from pain: 

Some studies suggest that butcher’s broom supplements may help treat the pain associated with conditions such as sciatica and other types of back pain.

Supporting skin health: 

Butcher’s broom is rich in flavonoids, compounds with antioxidant properties that can help to reduce inflammation and protect the skin from damage caused by harmful free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea.

The antioxidant properties of the plant’s compounds, such as flavonoids, ruscogenins, and phenolic acids, help to protect the skin from environmental stressors, UV radiation, and pollutants that cause damage to the skin cells and can lead to wrinkles and discoloration. The flavonoids found in butcher’s broom may also help to improve circulation, which can help to bring oxygen-rich blood to the skin. Improved circulation can help promote healthy skin by providing the necessary nutrients to function correctly.

Combination with other supplements: 

Butcher’s broom supplements can be combined with other supplements to enhance their effectiveness. For example, a butcher’s broom combined with horse chestnut may have a more powerful effect on improving circulation.

Side-effects of using butcher's broom supplement

Butcher’s broom supplements are generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, some people may experience side effects. Common side effects may include

Digestive issues: 

Some people may experience stomach upset, nausea, & diarrhea.

Allergic reactions: 

Some people may be allergic to butcher’s broom, in which case they may experience symptoms such as skin rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.

Blood pressure: 

Butcher’s broom may affect blood pressure, so people with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medication should talk to their doctor before taking butcher’s broom supplements.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: 

Butcher’s broom is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women as there is not enough information on its safety.

Medication interactions: 

Butcher’s broom may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

Children: 

Butcher’s broom supplements are not recommended for children as there is not enough data available on their safety.

How to consume butcher's broom supplement

Butcher’s broom supplements are typically taken orally, either as a capsule, tablet, tea, or tincture. The dosage and frequency of use will vary depending on the specific supplement and the treated condition. It’s important to follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.

For oral supplements such as capsules or tablets:

• Take the supplement as directed on the label, usually 1-2 capsules or tablets per day.
• It’s best to take them with a full glass of water and with or without food.
• It’s important to note that it may take several weeks of regular use before the full benefits of the supplement are realized.

For teas:

• Steep 1-2 tsp of dried root in 8 ounces of hot water for 10-15 minutes
• Drink 1-2 cups of tea per day

For Tincture:

• Take the supplement as directed on the label, usually 1-2 drops daily.
• Tinctures are usually taken sublingually, meaning under the tongue, or mixed with water or juice.

For Topical cream/ ointment:

• Apply a small amount of cream or ointment to the affected area as directed on the label.
• It’s usually applied 2-3 times a day.

Conclusion

Ancient medical history has used herbs and various botanical extracts to treat humans, and medical experts in this digital era appreciate such natural treatments. For example, using charcoal and neem in toothpaste is a primordial methodology used by toothpaste brands. Similarly, people have been using butcher’s broom supplements for ages and enjoying golden benefits. The contribution of this supplement has always been impeccable. So before you grab it, please consult your physician once, and don’t forget to let us know in a comment about the experience.