Agathosma betulina
Scientific Name: Buchu
Other Names: Barosma betulina, Bucco, Buku, Diosma
Should I take it?
Very little buchu is cultivated; most of the world's supply is obtained from bushes that grow wild in the Cedarberg Mountain region of South Africa. Extremely drought-tolerant, buchu plants have rubbery leaves that are spotted with tiny pockets of oil. White flowers bloom briefly during the spring. For medicine, the leaves are collected at the end of the growing season. Typically, the hillsides are then burned to remove weeds and underbrush that might otherwise choke out the buchu shrubs. Residents of the area use fresh buchu leaves to make a beverage or as perfume. Dried buchu leaves may also be used in teas; they may be powdered and mixed with ointment; or the oil may be distilled by a steam process. Buchu oil has a distinctive scent that is described as minty and fruity. Because it has a flavor similar to black currants, buchu frequently is used to give beverages, cigarettes, foods, or medicines a fruity flavor. Small amounts of buchu oil are approved as a food additive in Europe and the United States.
Dosage and Administration
Note: Oil derived from buchu contains a relatively high percentage of pulegone, a chemical known to cause liver damage. Buchu oil should never be swallowed and many sources discourage its use as aromatherapy.
Scientific literature offers no dosing recommendations for the oral dose forms of buchu that are available in the United States. Individuals who decide to use a buchu product should follow the directions on the label of the package that is purchased.
Summary
Despite possible minor diuretic and anti-infective effects, buchu currently is used mainly as a flavoring agent.
Risks
Chemicals in buchu are known to cause liver injury and to irritate kidney tissue. They may also cause miscarriage. Women who are breast-feeding should avoid it since its effects on infants are unknown.
Side Effects
Buchu may cause menstrual periods to start at unexpected times.
Interactions
Taking buchu may increase the effects of drugs and herbals that delay blood clotting or promote the loss of water from the body.
Last Revised October 5, 2007
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Should I take it? 
