A plant record

Butcher's broom (Ti oui (Fragon))

Ruscus aculeatus

EnglishButcher's broom

KreyòlTi oui (Fragon)

FrançaisPetit-houx

BotanicalRuscus aculeatus

Butcher's broom (Ti oui (Fragon)) — Ruscus aculeatus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Chronic venous insufficiency (leg swelling, heaviness, varicose veins). Hemorrhoids. Orthostatic hypotension.

Prepared as

Rhizome

Chemistry

Ruscogenins and neoruscogenins (steroidal saponins) — adrenergic receptor agonism → venoconstriction, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous. Reduce capillary permeability.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Ensifizans veinèz kwonik (janm anfle, vars). Emowoyid. Ipotansyon òtostatik. Ti oui (fragon) disponib nan diaspora ayisyen pou venn varikèz ak emowoyid. Rizòm nan ekstè pou sirkilasyon vennez ak jamb lou.

Français — Insuffisance veineuse chronique (gonflement des jambes, lourdeur, varices). Hémorroïdes. Hypotension orthostatique. Le fragon (petit-houx) est disponible dans la diaspora haïtienne pour les varices et les hémorroïdes; rhizome en extrait pour la circulation veineuse et les jambes lourdes.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

More on Haitian plant medicine