Ruscus (Ruscus aculeatus)

Ruscus (Ruscus aculeatus) is a member of the Asparagaceae family, native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. Traditionally, its leaves, stems, and roots have been used for infusions, decoctions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and ayurvedic medicine.

Ruscus (Ruscus aculeatus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Ruscus (Ruscus aculeatus) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Ruscus
Scientific Name	Ruscus aculeatus
Plant Family	Asparagaceae
Genus	Ruscus
Species	aculeatus
Native Range	Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Stems, Roots
Primary Medicinal Actions	Astringent, Anti-Inflammatory, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Ayurvedic Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Ruscus aculeatus
Common Name: Ruscus
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Buttercup Plant, Common Spurge, Common Spurge
Plant Family: Asparagaceae
Genus: Ruscus

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 100 centimeters.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Powder
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a calming astringent, in structural-support contexts.
Anti-inflammatory: Historically regarded as a warming anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Tonic: In herbal literature, noted as a gentle tonic, for long-term use contexts.
Stimulant: As described in traditional systems, a cooling stimulant, in wakefulness-related contexts.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Glycoside: A chemical class frequently found in roots, leaves, and seeds.
Tannin: A class of polyphenolic compounds commonly found in bark, leaves, and seeds.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific research related to this plant is ongoing. This section will be expanded in the future to include summaries of phytochemical studies, laboratory research, and other relevant scientific literature as it becomes available.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Precautionary considerations have been reported in relation to this herb.
Contraindications: The use of this herb has been associated with reported contraindications in some situations.
Allergies: Information regarding allergic responses to this herb is limited.
Drug Interactions: Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
Toxicity: The use of this herb has been linked to reported toxic effects.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Dried or fresh plant parts are infused in hot water and consumed as a beverage.
Decoction: This method uses sustained heat to extract compounds from firm plant structures.
Poultice: Plant parts are crushed or moistened and placed directly on the body.
Tincture: Alcohol is used as a solvent to extract plant constituents over time.
Extract: Non-alcoholic extracts provide a liquid form of plant constituents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.