Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Ruscus Species

The genus Ruscus (Asparagaceae) is comprised of seven species which include R. aculeatus L., R. colchicus Yeo., R. hypoglossum L., R. hypophyllum L., R. Hyrcanus Woronow., R. × microglossus Bertol., and R. streptophyllus Yeo. These perennial, rhizomatous, evergreen shrubs display a native distribution in the Mediterranean, Southern, and Western Europe areas. The rhizomes of the Ruscus species possess anti-inflammatory activity and are regularly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of urinary ailments, abdominal pain, vascular prevention, and skin disease. Ruscus species, especially R. aculeatus L., are a rich source of steroidal saponins which is responsible for their specific biological activities such as antihypertension, anti-hemorrhoids, and anti-venous sufficiency. This chapter aims to provide an updated overview of the phytochemical components and biological activities of Ruscus species to reveal their usage in traditional and modern medicine.