Leafy spurge (Ruscus aculeatus)
Other names: Leafy spurge
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Leafy spurge, also known as leafy spurge, is an evergreen plant belonging to the aspen family. This orange-shaped shrub is mainly distributed in the Mediterranean, western and southern Europe. It grows to a height of between 0,5 and 1 metre and differs from its relative, the narrow-leaved leafy spurge, mainly by its spiny leaves. The leaves are dark green, blade-shaped, glossy and spiny at the tip. These small spines are actually the stunted twigs that give the plant its name.
Leafy spurge is used in many areas. It can serve as an ornamental plant, but it also finds use in the food industry and medicine. The young shoots can be prepared like asparagus, but are less tasty and should be eaten with caution as they can cause digestive problems. The leaves and tubers of the leafy spurge are used in folk medicine to treat rheumatism and gout. Ruscogenin, which has vasodilating and anti-inflammatory effects, is also extracted from the plant. It can therefore help relieve swelling and inflammation. In the pharmaceutical industry, preparations for hemorrhoids and varicose veins are made from the leafy spurge. But the decorative uses of the plant are also diverse. In gardens and parks, the deciduous tree is often planted for its attractive appearance and as an addition to winter and summer plantings, as it is evergreen. The twigs of deciduous holly are also often used in Christmas arrangements.
Leafy spurge (Ruscus aculeatus) can be found in the following products
