Ruscogenin is a phytochemical that has anti-inflammatory properties. It is primarily found in Butcher's Broom and Radix Ophiopogon japonicas. Ruscogenin has been used to treat a variety of conditions such as edema, leg discomfort, peripheral vascular disease, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. It works by reducing inflammation, increasing blood flow, and drawing water out of cells. Several manufacturers in India and brands containing ruscogenin for treating hemorrhoids and venous insufficiency are listed.

1. Ruscogenin
PHYTOCHEMICAL

2. Introduction
Ruscogenin is an anti inflammatory phytochemical. Ruscogenin (RUS), first isolated
from Ruscus aculeatus( Butcher’s Broom ), is also a major steroidal sapogenin of the
traditional Chinese herb Radix Ophiopogon japonicus.
The molecular formulae of ruscogenin are C27H42O4. Butchers Broom extract is the
main source of ruscogenin. The increasing popularity of natural and herbal remedies in
Europe in the 1970s reaffirmed its position in modern medicine. Novel uses for this plant
have included its use as an anti-inflammatory agent and to prevent atherosclerosis.
A variety of compounds have been isolated from butcher's broom. The 2 primary
saponin compounds are ruscogenin and neoruscogenin. The ruscogenin content in
underground and aboveground parts is approximately 0.12% and 0.08%, respectively.
Applications of Ruscogenin :
1. Edema of the legs. This herb is particularly useful for people who are on their feet for
a long period of time in the course of a day. By drawing water out of cells and
perhaps inhibiting electrolyte reabsorption in the kidney, butcher's broom helps to
alleviate excess water retention in the feet and legs.
2. Leg discomfort. Butcher's broom contains compounds closely resembling steroids
which help to reduce inflammation.
3. Peripheral vascular disease. By increasing circulation of the blood, butcher's broom
may be of benefit in the treatment of disorders characterized by reduced circulation.
Raynaud's disease & Buerger's disease are two such disorders.
4. Hemorrhoids. Butcher's broom is frequently combined with Witch Hazel as an
ointment. When applied locally to the anus, butcher's broom may bring about
tremendous relief from the pain of hemorrhoids.
5. Bronchial asthma. It has been reported that butcher's broom, when combined with
black- or green-leaf tea, may improve inhalation and exhalation.
6. Varicose veins. Due to vasoconstriction and steroidal content, butcher's broom may
help to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of varicose veins.
7. Hypotension. Butcher's broom raises blood pressure and thus is a good treatment for
individuals suffering from chronic hypotension.
Raw Material Source :
Butcher's Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), a medicinal herb native to the Mediterranean
and Europe is a member of the lily family. The plant has rigid, branched, and spiny leaflike
stems which bear a greenish flower and red berries. Both the root and stem of the plant are
used in herbal preparations.

3. Butchers broom has been reported to be effective in treating a variety of conditions including:
Chronic venous insufficiency
Atherosclerosis
Hemorrhoids
Varicose veins
Common names
1. Butcher's Broom
2. Kneeholy, Knee Holly, Kneeholm
3. Jew's Myrtle
4. Sweet Broom
5. Pettigree
Radix Ophiopogon japonicas , a traditional Chinese Herb also is an upcoming source of
Ruscogenin. The tuberous roots are dug in summer. After the fibrous roots have been
removed, the roots are dried in the sun.
Typical Dosage
Ointments and suppositories including butcher's broom are typically used for hemorrhoids.
Encapsulated butcher's broom extracts, often combined with vitamin C or flavonoids, can be
used for systemic venous insufficiency in the amount of 1,000 mg three times daily.
Additionally, standardized extracts providing 50 - 100 mg of ruscogenins per day can be
taken.
Reported Side Effects
No significant side effects have been found for butcher's broom. However, nausea and
queasiness may result in rare cases. Butcher's broom is not recommended for those with high
blood pressure.
Indian Manufacturers of Ruscogenin :
1. Pioneer Enterprise –Mumbai ( www.pioneerherbal.com )
2. Al Chem International - Haryana ( www.alcheminternational.com )

4. Brands containing Ruscogenin :
Brand Name Origin Content
Flebodolor Spedrog (Argentina) Ruscogenin
Flebopom Typen (Argentina) Ruscogenin
Ruscorectal Heumann (Germany) Ruscogenin
Abrasone Rectal Seid (Spain) Fluocinolone acetonide + hexetidine +
ruscogenin
Calmoroide Warner-lambert Ruscogenin + vitamin A palmitate
(France)
Ibuproct Olvos (Greece) Trimebutine + ruscogenin
Proctolog Pfizer (France, Ruscogenin + trimebutine
Singapore)
Ruscoroid Sanofi-aventis otc Ruscogenin + tetracaine hydrochloride
(Italy)
Ruskorex Gsk (Poland) Ruscogenin + tetracaine hydrochloride
Venacol Llorens (Spain) Aescin + esculoside + heparin sodium +
ruscogenin
Pricing :
http://www.nextag.com/ruscus-aculeatus/compare-html