Butcher's Broom vs Red Yeast Rice

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Butcher's Broom

Ruscus aculeatus

Cardiovascular

Monascus purpureus

Cardiovascular

Butcher's Broom

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Red Yeast Rice

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Mediterranean evergreen shrub used since ancient Greece for circulatory conditions.

Chinese fermented rice containing natural lovastatin for cholesterol management.

Active Compounds

ruscogenin, neoruscogenin, saponins, flavonoids

Monacolin K (lovastatin), Monascin, Ankaflavin, Ergosterol

Traditional Uses

Treating varicose veins, Treating hemorrhoids, Improving circulation

Cholesterol lowering, Blood stasis, Digestive aid, Circulation

Modern Uses

Chronic venous insufficiency, Hemorrhoid treatment, Leg heaviness reduction

Lipid-lowering research, Statin equivalent studies, Cardiovascular protection

Adult Dosage

7-11mg total ruscogenins daily

1200-2400mg providing 10mg monacolin K daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Hypertension, MAOIs

Liver disease, Pregnancy, Nursing, Statin medications, Grapefruit

Side Effects

Nausea, Stomach upset, Contact dermatitis

Muscle pain (statin-like), Liver enzyme elevation, Digestive upset, Headache

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E