Evidence supporting the use of: Ruscus (unspecified)
For the body system: Lymphatics
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Ruscus, commonly known as butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe. It has been employed primarily for its effects on the circulatory system, especially for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. The use of Ruscus to support the lymphatic system is less direct but stems from its traditional role in promoting vascular health and reducing swelling (edema), which can overlap with lymphatic concerns. The saponins (such as ruscogenin) found in Ruscus are believed to cause vasoconstriction and reduce capillary permeability, theoretically helping to decrease fluid retention and support lymphatic drainage. However, direct clinical evidence specifically supporting the use of Ruscus for lymphatic system disorders (like lymphedema) is limited. Most research focuses on its vascular benefits, and only a few studies suggest possible benefits in reducing edema generally. Its inclusion in some modern lymphatic support supplements appears to be extrapolated from its traditional venotonic uses and some preliminary evidence of edema reduction. Therefore, while there is a traditional basis for using Ruscus in this context, and a plausible mechanism, robust scientific validation specifically for lymphatic support is lacking.
Other ingredients that support Lymphatics
alfalfaastragalus
bayberry
blackberry
bupleurum falcatum
burdock
cat's claw
chamomile
citrus oil
citrus pectin
turmeric
dandelion
dyer’s woad root
echinacea purpurea
fruit blend (proprietary)
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
gotu kola
onion
green tea
horse chestnut
lemon
licorice root
maitake mushroom
marshmallow
nettle
oregon grape
parsley
reishi mushroom
rosemary
scrophularia root
serratiopeptidase
specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs)
water
watercress
watermelon
sarsaparilla
red clover
jiaogulan
boneset
mullein
typhonium
lobelia
neem tree
punarnava
rubia cordifolia
lingzhi
yarrow
pau d'arco
elecampane
ganoderma
sheep's sorrel
polyporus
cleavers
stillingia
noni
herbal blend (proprietary)
AHCC
Ajuga
Aescin
Andrographis
Asteracea
Alkylglycerols
Blue Flag
Black-Eyed Susan
Brassica
berry
Bee products
Bupleurum
Bittersweet
Coumarin
Calendula
Coriolus mushroom
Codonopsis
Citrus
Cruciferous
Chinese Ligustrum berry
cypress
Chaparral
Cowslip
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cytokines
Castor Oil
Culvers Root
Deerbrush
Echinacea
Escin
Other body systems supported by Ruscus (unspecified)
ArteriesCapillaries
Circulatory System
Lymphatics
Veins