Buchu is a small shrub native to South Africa, particularly the Western Cape region. It has many uses in traditional medicine, including those related to inflammation, digestion, urinary tract issues and skin infections.
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| Buchu Photo by By Discott |
The Latin name for this plant is Agathosma betulina. Clinical research on this plant is scant, and relies mostly on lab studies and traditional medicine use.
It has small, leathery, elliptical leaves and produces clusters of white or pink flowers. It grows to about six feet high.
The primary compounds found in Agathosma betulina include various essential oils such as pulegone, diosphenol, and iso-pulegone, which contribute to its medicinal properties. It also has sulfur-containing compounds with organoleptic effects, and other coumarins.
Traditional Medicine Uses
Traditional medicinal uses of Buchu, primarily used among African people include:
Urinary Tract Health
Buchu has been used traditionally to support urinary tract health and alleviate symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs), such as burning sensation during urination and frequent urination. Its diuretic properties may help flush out toxins and bacteria from the urinary system.
For this reason, this herb has also been used for kidney issues related to pyelonephritis.
Anti-inflammatory
Buchu contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which have been used to alleviate inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and gout.
Studies have confirmed this, as Buchu extract was found to inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 inflammatory processes.
Some have used it for inflammation of the prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Digestive Aid
In traditional medicine, Buchu has been used to aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating and stomach cramps.
Blood sugar and cardioprotective
Buchu has been found to help moderate blood glucose levels. It has also been found to aid weight loss and lower blood pressure in lab studies.
Antioxidant
The essential oils present in Buchu exhibit antioxidant properties, which may help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Antimicrobial effects
Buchu has antimicrobial properties and has been used traditionally to combat infections, including those of the urinary tract and gastrointestinal system. Extracts have been shown to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Klebsiella pneumoniae
Buchu leaves are commonly prepared and consumed as herbal tea or used topically in poultices or infused oils.
Scientific References
Brendler T, Abdel-Tawab M. Buchu (Agathosma betulina and A. crenulata): Rightfully Forgotten or Underutilized? Front Pharmacol. 2022 Feb 7;13:813142. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.813142.
Moolla A, Viljoen AM. 'Buchu' -Agathosma betulina and Agathosma crenulata (Rutaceae): a review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Oct 28;119(3):413-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.07.036.
Lis-Balchin M, Hart S, Simpson E. Buchu (Agathosma betulina and A. crenulata, Rutaceae) essential oils: their pharmacological action on guinea-pig ileum and antimicrobial activity on microorganisms. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2001 Apr;53(4):579-82. doi: 10.1211/0022357011775703.
van Wyk BE. A broad review of commercially important southern African medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Oct 28;119(3):342-55. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.05.029.