Scotch Broom

Alternative names: Broom, Common Broom

Scotch broom is a bitter herb that depresses the respiration and regulates heart action.

It acts upon the electrical conductivity of the heart, slowing and regulating the transmission of the nerve impulses.

History; Source

The medical use of Scotch broom dates back to the 15th Century.

The parts of the plant that are used are the young flowering twigs, tops, and seeds.

Function; Why it is Recommended

Scotch broom exhibits diuretic (tops), cathartic (tops and seeds), emetic (seeds), antiarrhythmic, antirheumatic, cardiotonic, and vasoconstricting properties.  Constituents of interest include alkaloids, hydroxylamine, potash, ruscogenins, tannin, bitter principle, and traces of an essential oil.

It is used internally in the treatment of heart complaints.

Scotch broom is used for circulatory disorders, gout, leg cramps, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, phlebitis, thrombosis, and jaundice.  It quiets an overactive heart and relieves inflammation, toothache, ague, acute constipation, and swelling of the spleen.  It has been used against lice.

Being strongly diuretic, it stimulates urine production and counters fluid retention (edema).

It has been used to reduce blood loss after childbirth because it causes the uterine muscles to contract.

Combined with uva-ursi, cleavers, and dandelion it cleanses the kidneys and bladder, and increases urine flow.  It is a lymph tonic.

Side-Effects; Counter-Indicators and Warnings

Large doses can cause stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea), a weakened heart, and low blood pressure.  Severe toxicity can cause complete respiratory collapse, tachycardia and even fatal poisoning.

Should not be used by pregnant women or patients with high blood pressure.