Butcher’s Broom for Varicose Veins: Yes or No?

Butcher's Broom3Vein-related disorders have become one of the most frequent chronic diseases amongst Americans – 50% of them are experiencing at least a minor case of chronic venous insufficiency – a condition of damaged vein valves and poor blood circulation that typically results in varicose veins. Women are more prone to develop vein-related disorders than men for various reasons – genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancies, etc.

While consulting vein issues with a medical specialist is still the most desirable solution to the problem, many people want to try out various natural remedies and herbal supplements first – and there are quite a few of those on the market now. As a matter of fact, it has become very difficult to navigate through the surge of vitamin tablets, natural creams and herbal teas. That’s why we are going to look into one specific natural remedy recommended for vein-related issues and see if it is worth trying out – butcher’s broom.

Butcher's Broom1Butcher’s broom, also known as Ruscus Aculeatus, Knee Holly, Sweet Broom or Jew’s Myrtle, is a low evergreen shrub with stiff leaves. It blooms in spring, and the flowers eventually change into red berries. Butcher’s broom has a long history in natural medicine and has been used to treat many different issues: gallstones, hemorrhoids, as a laxative and diuretic. Some research says that the chemicals in this plant possibly improve blood circulation by constricting blood vessels and thus preventing blood from pooling in the veins – a problem which results in ankle and leg swelling, heaviness and cramps. To treat vein-related disorders, it is recommended to use butcher’s broom root extract in the form of tablets or capsules, together with vitamin C.

Unfortunately, all relevant conclusions of the research of butcher’s broom’s effectiveness when treating vein-related issues have not been officially published or approved by the medical community. You can try using the product, but remember it might only help some minor circulatory problems. If you are already experiencing symptoms of varicose and spider veins, it is preferable to find a medical professional to have your veins thoroughly examined to make sure there is not a more serious underlying condition that could potentially result in severe consequences, such as leg ulcers or deep vein thrombosis.

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