43501

Submitted by admin on Thu, 06/27/2024 - 16:27
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Buchu

  • Botanical Name

    Agathosma betulina

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    60%

  • Dose

    15 to 30mL weekly

Buchu is a popular remedy for urinary tract infections with anti-inflammatory, urinary antimicrobial and mild diuretic actions.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Buchu and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    The traditional use of buchu encompasses the treatment of kidney and urinary tract infections, cold, stomach ailments, rheumatism, gout and fever.

  • Actions

    Diuretic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, mild laxative, carminative, diaphoretic

  • Indications

    •    Urinary tract infections (specifically acidic urine) including cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis and pyelonephritis.
    •    Benign prostatic hyperplasia
    •    Hypertension
    •    Fever, cough, common cold
    •    Dyspepsia, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome
    •    Gout
    •    Sexually transmitted diseases
    •    Topically as an insect repellent, deodorant, to treat or prevent bacterial and fungal skin infections.

  • Energetics

    Bitter, pungent, warm, dry

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Caution is advised. Buchu is generally regarded as having a high level of safety but is often contraindicated during pregnancy. This is mainly for the adulterant A. crenulata as the contraindicated chemical pulegone (in the essential oil) is contained in high amounts in this species. A. betulina, however, is considered safe to use during pregnancy.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Buchu may have antiplatelet effects therefore, theoretically, buchu may increase the risk of bleeding when used by patients with bleeding disorders. Tell patients to discontinue buchu at least two weeks before elective surgical procedures.

    May cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if taken on an empty stomach.

    Caution advised during use with a kidney infection as the volatile oil may irritate the kidney.

  • Drug Interactions

    Theoretically, buchu may have antiplatelet effects which may enhance the effects of anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs and increase the risk of bleeding in some patients. Caution is advised with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

    Buchu contains pulegone, a known hepatotoxin. There is some concern that buchu may adversely affect the liver, especially when the leaf is used in large doses or the oil is ingested. Theoretically, concomitant use with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage. Caution is advised with these drugs.

    Buchu is thought to have diuretic properties. Theoretically, buchu might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. Caution is advised and the dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free.

  • Substitutes

    Uva Ursi, Golden Rod, Juniper, Cornsilk, Celery, Parsley Root, Horsetail, Dandelion Leaf, Crateva, Hydrangea