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Butcher's broom

Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus, Box Holly, Jew's Myrtle, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Pettigree, Sweet Broom) contains as primary active ingredients the steroidal saponins (ruscogenin and neoruscogenin), but other constituents have been isolated, including flavonoids, tetracosanoic acid, chrysophanic acid, sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, triterpenes, coumarins, sparteine, tyramine, and glycolic acid. Its ingredients reduce vascular permeability, have anti-elastic properties and are vasoconstrictors. Butcher's broom has been shown to increase circulation to help prevent post-operative thrombosis, phlebitis, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Butcher's broom also strengthens blood vessels and helps to keep veins clean and healthy. Butcher's broom also helps to prevent blood clotting via its diuretic effect.

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