Ruscus aculeatus

Ruscus aculeatus L.

Asparagaceae

  • Butcher's Broom
  • Jew's Myrtle
  • Knee Holly
  • Piaranthus
  • `ajram عجرم
  • `urf ad-dik عرف الديك
  • mikneset el-jazzar مكنسة الجزار
  • safandar سفندر
  • עֶצְבּוֹנִית הַחֹרֶשׁ
  • etzbonit ha-khoresh

Hemicryptophyte

  • Mediterranean maquis and forest

Click to view:

Click Flora of Israel Online to view
distribution and other botanical details.

Medicinal Complaints / Uses

Ruscus aculeatus L.

Medicinal Complaints / Uses
System/State Traditional
Complaint/Use
Activity / Interpretation Traditional
Preparation/ Administration
Parts Used Source
Gastrointestinal

Constipation

Laxative

Cook plant in water alone or + "sharashib el-dura" (stigamata of Zea maydis (see NOTES 1) & drink.

Aerial parts Z
Kidney & Urinary Tract

Kidney stones (Z, B) & Urinary obstruction (Z)

Anti-lithic, Deobstruent

1. Cook plant in water alone or + "sharashib el-dura" (stigamata of Zea maydis (see NOTES 1) & drink. (Z)
2. Decoct ground rhizomes & drink. (B)

Aerial parts Z

The authors of FLORAPALE, (Flora Palaestina Ethnobotanical) web site do not take responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants described here. Always seek advice from a health professional before using a plant medicinally or for other purposes. See DISCLAIMER.

Stigmata maydis (corn silk) refers to stigmas of the female flowers of maize, (corn silk, Zea maydis).

Using the rhizome of Ruscus aculeatus has been associated rarely with gastric complaints including nausea, diarrhea & colits. Contains ruscogenins which may cause allergic skin reactions on local application of the plant due to sensitivity. Stimulates α-adrenergic system, therefore may potentially effect cardiovascular function & can also effect blood pressure in patients on treatment for hypertension. Berries are purgative. The plant is not suitable for children. Its safety in pregancy & lactation has not been established.