Ruscus aculeatus - Butcher's-broom

Ruscus aculeatus, generally known as a Butcher's-broom, is an evergreen, multi -year -old plant from the family of asparagus plants (Asparagaceae). This plant is native to the temperate zones of Europe, North Africa and West Asia. It has been valued for centuries both for its medical properties and as an ornamental plant. Ruscus aculeatus is known for its extraordinary morphological characteristics, especially for its leaf -like phyllocladia, and plays a role in traditional medicine, especially in the treatment of vein diseases.

Morphology

Ruscus aculeatus is a low growing shrub, which usually reaches a height of 30 to 80 centimeters. The plant has stiff, upright stems that are branched and form a dense structure. The so -called phyllo classes that take on a leaf -like function are particularly striking. These phyllocladia are flat, width, lanceolate structures that are up to 2 to 4 centimeters long. They are dark green, shiny and have a lace, sting -like tip that gives them their "stinging" character. In fact, however, the phyllo classes are not real leaves, but converted branches, while the real leaves are reduced to small, scale -like structures.

The plant is two houses, which means that male and female flowers grow on different individuals. The flowers are small, inconspicuous and greenish and white, where they appear individually or in small groups in the middle of the phyllocladia. The flowering period extends from March to May. After pollination, the female plants develop bright red berries that measure about 1 centimeter in diameter. These berries are poisonous for humans, but are used by some bird species as a source of food.

Distribution and habitat

Ruscus aculeatus is widespread in the moderate zones of Europe, especially in the Mediterranean. The plant can also be found in parts of North Africa and West Asia. It prefers shady to partially shaded locations and often grows in forests, under bushes and on forest edges. The Butcher's-broom thrives particularly well in well -permeable, calcareous floors and is able to tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Due to its robust nature, the plant can also be successfully cultivated in urban areas, gardens and parks.

Medical importance

Ruscus aculeatus has a long tradition in folk medicine, especially in the treatment of circulatory disorders. The most important pharmacologically active ingredients of the plant are saponins, especially ruscogenin and neoruscogenin. These compounds have anti -inflammatory, vascular -narrowing and vascular -protecting properties that are useful in the treatment of vein diseases such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

In modern phytotherapy, the stinging mice in the form of extracts, creams or ointments is used to relieve symptoms such as swelling, pain and feeling in the legs. It is assumed that Ruscus aculeatus improves blood circulation and strengthens the vein walls, which can contribute to the prevention and treatment of chronic venous failure. In addition, some studies show that the plant also has antioxidant properties that could contribute to the general protection of the vascular system.

In addition to use in venous diseases, the Butcher's-broom is also used for the treatment of edema, rheumatism and as a mild diuretic. However, the use of the plant should be used with caution, since the berries are poisonous and can lead to gastrointestinal complaints if they are consumed.

Ecological meaning

Ruscus aculeatus also plays a role in the ecosystem in which it occurs. The dense, evergreen vegetation of the plant offers protection and habitat for numerous small animals, especially insects and birds. The bright red berries, although to be poisonous for humans, serve some bird species as an important source of food during the winter months, which contributes to spreading the plant.

In addition, the Butcher's-broom is often used as an ornamental plant due to its robust and easy -care nature in gardens and parks. It is particularly popular in shady areas where other plants often have difficulty thriving. The plant is also valued as cutting green in floristics, since the phyllocladia are long -lasting and decorative.

Cultivation and care

Ruscus aculeatus is an easy -care plant that requires little attention. It is adapted to a variety of conditions and can thrive in different soil types, but prefers well permeable, lime -containing soils. The plant is relatively resistant to dryness and can grow well under shady conditions, which makes it an ideal choice for difficult garden areas.

The increase is best done by sharing the rhizomes in spring or sowing the seeds, although the latter lasts longer and can be more difficult. Once established, the plant only needs minimal care and can stay at its location for many years.