Buchu Leaf (Agathosma betulina)

Buchu is a plant. The leaf is used to make medicine.

Buchu is used to disinfect the urinary tract during infections of the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), prostate (prostatitis), or kidney (pyelonephritis). It is also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases.

In manufacturing, the oil from buchu is used to give a fruit flavor (often black currant) to foods.

How does it work?

It is thought that the active chemicals in buchu may kill germs and also promote urine flow.

Urinary tract infections.
Kidney infections.
Sexually transmitted diseases.

Classical dose is 2g of the leaves daily.

Buchu is SAFE in food amounts and is SAFE when used appropriately in medicinal amounts. But it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE in larger amounts and when the oil is consumed. Buchu may irritate the stomach and kidneys and increase menstrual flow. Liver function in people who use buchu should be monitored by a healthcare provider if already predisposed to liver complications.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Don't use buchu in amounts that are larger than usual food amounts if you are pregnant. Buchu is LIKELY UNSAFE when taken during pregnancy. There have been reports linking buchu to miscarriages.

If you are breast-feeding, buchu is POSSIBLY SAFE in food amounts, but don't take larger amounts. Not enough is known about the safety of buchu during breast-feeding.
Bleeding disorders: Buchu might slow blood clotting and increase bleeding. In theory, buchu might make bleeding disorders worse.

Kidney infections: Even though some people use buchu for kidney infections, health experts advise against this.
Urinary tract inflammation: Don't use buchu if you have pain and swelling in the urinary tract.

Surgery: Buchu might slow blood clotting. There is some concern that it might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using buchu at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.