This evergreen perennial shrub, also called Ruscus, is common in France, particularly in soils that enjoy a mild climate, since it does not like the cold. It is a small shrub with sharp, pointed, dark green leaves. The tiny white flower s which form after pollinization later develop into bright red berries which are highly toxic. The root has long been been used in cosmetics, in particular for its vaso-constricting, soothing and draining properties. Clarins Laboratories uses a specific extract which contains all of the key ingredients found in the root and gives products intense decongestive and soothing actions.