Buchu Herb

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Buchu (Boegoe)Agathosma crenulataBarosma betulinaBarosma crenulataBarosma serratifoliaDiosma crenulata This page contains information on buchu and how it is used as a herb in alternative herbal treatments. to treat ailments and problems, such as urinary tract infections, prostate, bloating, menstruation and PMS. On this page Botanical classification of buchu Description of buchu Parts used Properties of buchu Internal use External use Use of essential oil Safety precautions and warnings Used in the following products Herbal Index Please note that we are not advocating that people stop using their normal medication, but would like to make people aware that some alternative therapies can be very effective to help treat problems and

create a healthier, younger and more vital you. For more information on our range of products, please click here. Although we believe in the therapeutic and healing properties of herbs, care must be taken in the use thereof, as they are powerful compounds. Botanical Classification Family Rutaceae Genus and specie Agathosma crenulata synonym Barosma betulina, B. crenulata, and B. serratifolia, Diosma

crenulata Other names Bookoo, buku, bucku and bucco. Description of the herb buchu Buchu is a 5 foot shrub with finely toothed opposite or alternate leaves, 3.5cm long.The leaves have visible oil glands that release a strong aroma reminiscent of blackcurrant.White flowers with purple anthers appear in spring, usually with 5 petals. Parts used The leaves are used in herbal preparations. Properties A stimulant, strong diuretic, antiseptic, and cleansing herb that increases perspiration. The antiseptic and strong diuretic properties are evident due to the active ingredient in the

herb: diosphenol or "barosma camphor." The leaves contain an essential oil which contains limonene, isomenthone, diosphenol (buchu camphor), terpinen-4-ol and minor sulfur containing compounds such as 8-mercpacto-p-methane-3-one. The A. betulina leaf is more active than that of A. crenulata, as it contains low amounts of diosphenol, yet a possibly high toxic level of pulegone. Therapeutic uses Internal use Buchu is used internally for the relief of urinary tract infections, especially in conjunction with prostate problems. Furthermore, it is also used in the symptomatic relief of rheumatism. It is also used for bloating while menstruating, reducing high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure. Buchu

is also used to decrease water retention - but please read the safety warnings below. Buchu decreases inflammation of the colon, gums, and mucous membranes and is specifically used to treat bladder infections. External use Steeped in vinegar it is used as a remedy for bruises and sprains. Aromatherapy and essential oil use The oil extracted from buchu should, because of its high pulegone content, not be used in aromatherapy as it is considered toxic. Safety precautions and warnings When using buchu as a diuretic it must be noted that it can deplete the body's store of potassium. When taking buchu, you should increase your consumption of

foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, various dark green vegetables, whole grains and fish. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take therapeutic amounts of buchu and the herb should also not be used on young children. Topical application of the essential oil extracted from the buchu plant should not be used in aromatherapy http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-buchu.htm

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