Identity & plant part
Buchu belongs to the citrus family. Round-leaf buchu is Agathosma betulina; Agathosma crenulata is another commercially used species. Common names can conceal meaningful differences in oil composition. [Sources]
Traditional knowledge
The UWC/SAMRC monograph records traditional use for urinary and digestive complaints and external washes. Historical use for a urinary complaint does not establish that an infection is being treated. [Sources]
How the medicine is extracted
Leaf infusions, alcohol-containing macerates and distilled oils recover different groups of compounds. Distillation concentrates the volatile fraction. The medicinal monograph flags variable oil composition, including pulegone, so an oil should never be considered a drop-for-drop substitute for a leaf preparation. [Sources]
Scientific evidence & limitations
The source discusses experimental antimicrobial and pharmacological work. Such observations do not establish clinical efficacy for a urinary tract infection. Product identity, chemical testing and clinical outcomes need to be evaluated separately. [Sources]
Safety & suitability
The monograph advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Urinary pain, fever, flank pain or blood in urine need medical assessment; do not delay treatment with buchu. [Sources]
Conservation & knowledge holders
Use cultivated material with a documented species identity and harvesting record; “buchu” alone is an inadequate specification. [Sources]
Sources & credits
- Scott & Springfield, UWC/SAMRC — Agathosma betulina monograph
- SANBI PlantZAfrica — Agathosma crenulata
Video resources
KTN News Kenya: KEMRI medicinal-plant research (23 March 2026). This is related research news, not a demonstration for this species.
Search YouTube for Agathosma betulina. These search results are uncurated; check identity, credentials and evidence before relying on a video.