Description
Botanical: Barosma serratifolia (also known as Agathosma serratifolia)
Other common names: Bucco, Diosma, Bookoo, Bucku
For relief of urinary tract infections, try Buchu Leaf! It has been known to strengthen the urinary system and is used to ease inflammation of the bladder, reduce bloating and excess water weight, alleviate painful urination, reduce swelling of the prostate and eliminate uric acid from the kidneys.
Country of Origin: Africa
Beneficial Uses:
Buchu is well known for its beneficial stimulating and soothing effects on the urinary tract system of both men and women. The active ingredient, diosphenol (or barosma camphor), is said to be a potent antiseptic and diuretic, and the herb has been especially helpful in the treatment of urinary tract infections, including prostatitis, urethritis and cystitis. Buchu has been said to reduce swelling of the prostate, soothe the lining membrane of the urethra and alleviate painful urination. It is also thought to help control bladder and kidney problems and the incontinence that is associated with prostate problems. Buchu is considered one of the best herbs for the prostate gland.
As an herbal diuretic, Buchu stimulates and cleanses the urinary system and is an excellent remedy for urine stoppage. The herb also helps to correct fluid retention and promotes the elimination of excess water weight. In addition, Buchu increases perspiration, an excellent means of cleansing toxins from the body through the skin.
One of Buchu's most useful properties in treating urinary tract diseases is its ability to promote the elimination of mucus and uric acid from the kidneys. The effect is due to the volatile oils, limonene and diosphenol (a phenolic ketone), and may be helpful to those who suffer from gout and rheumatism. Buchu Leaf has also been recommended for eliminating kidney stones and gravel in the kidneys and bladder.
Frequently called a "specific" for bladder infections, Buchu is also renowned for lessening the inflammation of the colon, prostate, sinuses, gums and vagina and is said to relieve vaginal discharge.
Buchu soothes and stimulates mucous membranes. Consequently, the herb supports the digestive tract and is used to improve digestive disorders. Buchu Leaf also soothes the mucous membranes of the respiratory system and is beneficial for treating coughs. Moreover, the herb helps to alleviate catarrhal conditions and inflammation in the kidneys and bladder.
Some recent studies have indicated that Buchu contains a substance that blocks ultraviolet light and may have applications when used topically in skin preparations.
Contraindications:
Buchu is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. Those with kidney infections should not use Buchu without consulting a physician. This product should be taken only with meals. Taking Buchu Leaf and blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, etc.) or medication to treat blood disease (sulfinpyrazone) together may cause your blood to be too thin (clot less easily), making you bleed more than usual or bruise easily.
