PP. Sadarmin and J. Timperley (2013). An unusual case of Butcher's Broom precipitating diabetic ketoacidosis. The Journal of emergency medicine, 45(3), e63-5. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2012.11.087

PubMed 23849361

[Abstract]
BACKGROUND: Herbal medicines are readily available and commonly perceived to be relatively harmless. Butcher's Broom is used in various medicinal preparations and contains substances having α-adrenergic-stimulating properties.

OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to report a case of toxicity associated with Butcher's Broom in a diabetic patient.

CASE REPORT: A 39-year-old woman developed diabetic ketoacidosis 5 days after beginning therapy with Butcher's Broom for mild ankle swelling. Her diabetic ketoacidosis was complicated by hyperkalemia and acidosis with a pH of 7.02. After management with intravenous fluid, insulin, and calcium gluconate, her condition stabilized and she was discharged several days later.

CONCLUSIONS: This case represents a small but potentially serious public health concern in a diabetic woman taking Butcher's Broom.