The properties of Buchu
Agathosma is a genus of about 140 species of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae, native to the southern part of Africa. Common names include Buchu, Boegoe, Bucco, Bookoo and Diosma. Buchu formally denotes two herbal species, prized for their fragrance and medicinal use despite their toxicity.
Two species of Agathosma endemic to the Western Cape mountains of South Africa and colloquially referred to as “Buchu” are cultivated on a commercial basis for their essential oils, Agathosma Betulina and Agathosma Crenulata. The leaves of Agathosma Betulina have traditionally been used as an herbal remedy for ailments of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, as it has diuretic and antiseptic properties due to various phenolic compounds. “Buchu vinegar”, prepared by steeping the leaves and stalks in vinegar, also is a traditional remedy used for example in compresses and also taken internally.
Currently, the essential oils from buchu are used in medicine, food flavorings, and aromatic oils.
