Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ruscogenin is a steroidal saponin compound found in the plant Ruscus aculeatus (commonly known as butcher's broom). Butcher's broom extracts, standardized for ruscogenins, have been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support venous health, particularly for conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which includes symptoms like varicose veins, swollen ankles, and leg discomfort. Spider veins, while technically different from varicose veins, are also related to minor forms of venous dysfunction.

The scientific evidence for ruscogenin’s efficacy in treating venous disorders primarily relates to its vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory properties. Several clinical studies and reviews (see: Pittler et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012; and European Medicines Agency assessment report, 2012) have noted modest improvements in symptoms of CVI with butcher's broom extract. Mechanistically, ruscogenins are thought to promote vasoconstriction of veins and reduce capillary permeability, which may help relieve swelling and discomfort.

However, direct high-quality evidence specifically for the use of ruscogenin or butcher’s broom in treating or reducing spider veins (telangiectasia) is limited. Most available studies focus on broader venous insufficiency, not on isolated spider veins. Therefore, while there is some scientific support for its use in venous disorders overall, the evidence for spider veins specifically is weak and indirect. The rating reflects this gap.

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