Scientific name:Ruscus aculeatus
Constituents:
- Steroidal saponins: ruscogenin, ruscine, ruscoside, aglycones neoruscogenin
- Benzofuranes: euparone, ruscodibenzofurane
Medicinal actions:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Cardiac Tonic
- Vascular Tonic
Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:
- Steroidal saponins: Ruscogenins and neoruscogenins contain the basic steroid structure found in adrenocortical hormones and are responsible for the medicinal effects.
- Ruscogenins appear to decrease vascular permeability, reduce inflammation and cause vasoconstriction, reducing hemorrhage and lymphedema. They have proved particularly effective in the treatment of anorectal syndrome, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
Pharmacy:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Ointments and suppositories
Safety & Toxicity Concerns:
- Gastric upset and nausea may occur.
Interactions:
- None known.
- Theoretical interaction with antihypertensives, medications for benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) & MAO inhibitors.
