Buchu

Species (Family)
Agathosma betulina (Berg.) Pillans (Rutaceae)

Synonyms(s)
Barosma betulina Bart. & Wendl., Round Buchu, Short Buchu
Note that Oval Buchu refres to Agathosma crenulata (L.) Pilans (synonym Barosma crenulata (L.) Hook.) and Long Buchu refres to Agathosma serratifolia (Curt.) Spreeth (synonym Barosma serratifolia (Curt.) Willd).


Part(s) Used
Leaf

Food Use
Buchu is listed by the Council of Europe as a natural source of food flavouring (category N3). This category allows buchu to be added to foodstuffs in the traditionally accepted manner, although there is insufficient information available for an adequate assessment of potential toxicity. In the USA, buchu volatile oil is aproved for food use with concentrations usually up to about 0.0002% (15.4ppm).


Herbal User
Buchu is stated to possess urinary antiseptic and diuretic properties. It has been used for cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and specifically for acute catarrhal cysitis.


Dosage
Dried leaf 1-2g by infusion three times daily.

Liquid extract 0.3-1.2 mL (1:1 in 90% alcohol).
Tincture 2-4mL (1:5 in 60% alcohol).

Pics of Buchu

Buchu

Buchu

Buchu