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Buchu |
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Barosma betulina. Agathosma betulina - Buchu
This small South African shrub, found only in the Western Cape, is often used to increase the production of urine. It is also used to treat urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Buchu has a pungent mint like smell and taste.
Traditional use in South Africa:
- Bloating caused by premenstrual syndrome, genital and urinary tract disorders
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections and other disorders of the urinary tract
- Prostate disorders
- Rheumatism
- Colds and flu
- Diuretic
- High blood pressure - always stay on conventional medicine as
well!
- Reduces inflammation of the colon, gums, sinuses and vagina
- Diabetes II
Phyto-Chemistry
Volatile oil (up to 2.5%, containing diosphenol, limonene and menthol and camphor), Glycoside (barosmin), Flavonoids (including diosmin, rutin, hesperidin, quercetin and derivatives), mucilage, resin, vitamins of the B group and tannin.
Possible Side Effects
Stomach upset or diarrhoea can occur. Because of the diuretic effect of buchu, be sure to consume potassium rich foods while taking this herb such as tomatoes, bananas and fresh vegetables. There is occasional gastrointestinal intolerance to Buchu so it should not be taken on an empty stomach.
Speak with your doctor if you are pregnant, before taking buchu or any other diuretic. Avoid Buchu if you have a history of kidney disease.
Other Interesting Facts
The Hottentots used Buchu to perfume their bodies.
It was introduced into official medicine in Britain in 1821 as a remedy for cystitis, urethritis, nephritis and catarrh of the bladder.
The KhoiKhoi people in Southern Africa have been using this plant for centuries for treating most of their ailments.
In Europe, it was also used to treat gout.
Buchu has a mild antiseptic activity.
Most of the plants are still grown in South Africa where the government exercizes strict control over the gathering of the leaves to prevent destruction of the wild plants. The plants thrive on the cool mountain slopes at high altitudes.
The exporting of buchu leaves to Britain and the US, where it was used as a hangover cure, was a well developed industry last century.
The leaves fall off the stalks and may be used to flavor vinegar, a useful balm for bruises and strains.
NB :This product is ment to help maintain general welbeing. The information on this page is not intended to diagnose, test, cure or prevent any didease.
The information on this page is not intended to promote the product as a medicine. |
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