Scotch Broom Supplement – What It Is and How to Use It

If you’ve heard about Scotch broom as a plant, you might wonder why it shows up in supplement aisles. The short answer: the bark and leaves contain compounds that some people use for hormonal balance and skin health. In this guide we’ll break down what the supplement actually does, who might benefit, and how to take it without risking side effects.

What Is Scotch Broom?

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a shrub native to Europe but now grown worldwide. The plant’s roots, bark and flowers are rich in flavonoids, alkaloids and saponins. These chemicals give the herb its reputed ability to support estrogen metabolism and help with oily skin or mild hormonal acne.

Most commercial products use a powdered extract of the bark or a liquid tincture. The extraction process concentrates the active compounds so you get a stronger dose than chewing raw bark would provide.

The supplement is popular among people looking for natural alternatives to hormone‑balancing drugs, especially women in their 30s and 40s who notice changes in skin oiliness or menstrual regularity. Some also use it for mild urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate, although the evidence is limited.

How To Use It Safely

Start with a low dose – typically 250‑500 mg of powdered bark extract per day, taken with food. If you’re using a tincture, follow the label’s drop instructions, usually about 20–30 drops daily. Give your body a week or two to adjust before you consider increasing the amount.

Watch out for stomach upset. The alkaloids can irritate an empty stomach, so always pair the supplement with a meal. If you feel dizziness, rapid heartbeat or a rash, stop taking it and talk to a healthcare professional.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid Scotch broom because its hormonal activity isn’t fully studied in those conditions. Likewise, anyone on blood‑thinning medication (like warfarin) should check with their doctor, as the plant’s coumarin‑type compounds could increase bleeding risk.

Store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve potency and prevents mold growth.

When choosing a brand, look for third‑party testing or GMP certification. Those marks mean the company checks for contaminants like heavy metals and ensures the label matches what’s inside the bottle.

In short, Scotch broom can be a helpful addition if you’re after a natural way to balance hormones or clear up skin, but treat it like any other supplement: start low, monitor how you feel, and consult a professional if you have medical conditions or take prescription meds.