Description
Buchu formally known for for their fragrance and medicinal use.
Agathosma betulina is a flowering plant in the family Rutaceae, native to the lower elevation mountains of western South Africa, where it occurs near streams in fynbos habitats.
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.Plant Specifications
| Common Name | Agathosma betulina,Buchu, Boegoe, Bucco, Bookoo and Diosma |
| Maximum Reachable Height | 2 m |
| Flower Colour | white |
| Bloom Time | feb. to april |
| Difficulty Level | easy to grow |
Planting and care
Place plants in full sun in average, well-drained soil. Drainage is important; don t place where roots will sit in water. Leaves develop best flavor in full sun.
Buchu care
Growing plants can be inexpensive, particularly when growing them from seed. Seeds of plants flowers should usually be sown directly into the sunny flower bed, as developing roots do not like to be disturbed.
| Sunlight | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Watering | Medium |
| Soil | well-drained soil |
| Temperature | between 6C and 17C |
| Fertilizer | Apply any organic fertilizer |
Buchu special feature
Historically, buchu has been used to treat inflammation, and kidney and urinary tract infections; as a diuretic and as a stomach tonic. Other uses include carminative action and treatment of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and gout. It also has been used for leukorrhea and yeast infections.
Buchu uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Medicinal Use:
- Buchu remains a popular ingredient in over-the-counter herbal diuretic preparations
- Historically, buchu has been used to treat inflammation, and kidney and urinary tract infections; as a diuretic and as a stomach tonic
- Other uses include carminative action and treatment of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and gout