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Buchu (Barosma betulina syn. Agathosma betulina)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rutaceae
  • Common Names: Buchu, Round-leaf Buchu
  • Parts Used: Leaves

Description

Buchu is a small, fragrant shrub native to South Africa. It has small, green, oval leaves and white or pale pink flowers. The leaves have a distinctive aroma due to their high essential oil content and have been traditionally used for their diuretic and antiseptic properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by the indigenous Khoisan people of South Africa to treat kidney and bladder ailments.
  • Traditionally employed as a natural diuretic and remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  • Buchu leaves were used in poultices for wound healing and inflammation.

Constituents

  • Essential oils (diosphenol, pulegone)
  • Flavonoids
  • Mucilage
  • Tannins
  • Coumarins

Actions

  • Diuretic
  • Antimicrobial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antiseptic
  • Carminative (relieves gas)

Medicinal Uses

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):
Buchu is highly effective in treating UTIs due to its antiseptic and diuretic properties, helping to flush bacteria and reduce inflammation.

2. Kidney and Bladder Health:
As a diuretic, buchu supports kidney and bladder function by promoting the elimination of excess fluids and toxins.

3. Digestive Aid:
Buchu’s carminative action helps relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion.

4. Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing:
Applied externally, buchu leaves can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of wounds, cuts, and insect bites.

5. Menstrual Cramps and Reproductive Health:
Traditionally used to ease menstrual cramps and support overall reproductive health.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried buchu leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and consume 1-2 times daily for urinary or digestive support.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of buchu tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Crushed fresh leaves can be applied externally to wounds and inflamed areas.

Capsules:

  • 250-500 mg of dried leaf powder per dose, taken 1-2 times daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid during pregnancy due to its diuretic and uterine-stimulating effects.
  • Kidney Disorders: Use cautiously in individuals with kidney disease, as its diuretic effect may cause strain.
  • Essential Oil Toxicity: Avoid high doses of buchu essential oil, as it can be toxic.
  • Medication Interactions: May interact with diuretics and medications affecting the kidneys.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic: Buchu’s cooling and drying properties help balance pitta and kapha but may aggravate vata in excess.
  • Traditional Uses: In South African traditional medicine, it is used to “cool” the body and cleanse the blood.

Combinations

  • For Urinary Health: Combine with uva ursi and corn silk.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with peppermint and fennel.
  • For Anti-inflammatory Effects: Combine with turmeric and calendula.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are harvested when fully mature, typically in late spring or summer.
  • Drying: Dry leaves in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Modern Research

Studies have confirmed buchu’s antimicrobial and diuretic effects, particularly its efficacy in managing urinary tract infections. Research is ongoing into its role in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support.

Buchu remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, known for promoting urinary health, aiding digestion, and supporting wound healing.