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Buchu
What is buchu? What is it used for?
Buchu is a small shrub native to South Africa. Although there
are several varieties, two species (agathosma betulina
and agathosma crenulata) are used commercially. The
plant’s leaves and essential oils contain medicinal properties.
Buchu leaves contain flavonoids and volatile oils. These
substances are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
properties. Buchu is often used to help clear up kidney stones,
urinary tract infections and other urinary disorders. It is
also sometimes taken in conjunction with uva ursi to treat
an enlarged prostate.
How much buchu should I take?
Traditional practitioners recommend 1-2 grams of dried buchu
leaf taken in capsules or in tea three times per day. Other
providers recommend 2-4 ml of a buchu tincture three times
per day.
What forms of buchu are available?
Dried buchu leaves are readily available at many African
markets and specialty stores. Buchu is also available in capsule
and tincture form.
What can happen if I take too much
buchu? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What
precautions should I take?
Buchu may cause upset stomach and/or diarrhea. In addition,
because buchu acts as a diuretic, it may deplete the body
of potassium. Many practitioners recommend eating foods that
are high in potassium to combat this effect.
Buchu may also interact negatively with certain medications,
including thiazide diuretics and triamterene. It should not
be consumed by women who are pregnant or lactating.
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References
- Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et
al. (eds). The Complete German Commission E Monographs:
Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Austin: American
Botanical Council and Boston: Integrative
Medicine Communications, 1998:317.
- Didry N, Pinkas M. A propos du buchu.
Plantes Méd et Phyothér 1982;16:249—52.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et
al. (eds). PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics, 1998:686—7.
- Simpson D. Buchu -- South Africa’s
amazing herbal remedy. Scott Med J 1998;43:189—91.
- Wichtl M. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals.
Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1994:102—3.
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