Buchu or Agathosma betulina is a flowering shrub that is native to South Africa. Its leaves are an amazing source of vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and antioxidants. Buchu is currently very popular for its distinct peppermint-like flavor and health benefits. In fact, the oil from the plant is antibacterial as well as antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and diuretic properties, making it a natural antibiotic.
Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating rheumatism and gout and also act as a detoxifying herb and remedy for upset stomach. Buchu is also used in treating digestive and urinary tract conditions. Additionally, buchu oil is rich in minerals, vitamins (A, B, C, and E), flavonoids, and antioxidants.
The herb possesses certain medicinal chemical components, including Pugelone, Mucilage, Diosphenol, and Diosmin.
Let’s talk more on the health benefits of Buchu.
Aids Digestion
There are certain microbes present in the gastrointestinal tract that can result in a lot of indigestion, which can eventually cause a lot of health issues. What Buchu oil does is to destroy the microbial organisms that are responsible for indigestion. Apart from destroying these bacteria, Buchu oil also stimulates the secretion of digestive juices. Thus, enhancing the functions of the digestive system.
Protects Against Infections
There are times when we require health tonics to for maintaining good health. And Buchu is one beneficial tonic that has proven to be very effective as it is able to flush out microbial bacteria and harmful toxins from the body. Also, it protects the body against incessant and recurring infections. The herb regulates metabolism and helps you maintain a healthy appetite. Evidently, Buchu is effective in maintaining optimum health.
This is not even all—Buchu also contains UV ray blocking properties and can provide relief from inflammations and sprains.
Antiseptic
In case you didn’t know, injuries can get septic when left unattended and untreated. This makes it very necessary to eliminate the bacteria and germs responsible for sepsis. In fact, Buchu’s anti-microbial properties can inhibit sepsis. So if you have an injury, simply the area clean and destroy the germs with Buchu oil. Interestingly, the oil is also effective for treating kidney, colon, urinary, and prostate problems. You only need to consume the right amount of the oil to prevent the body’s internal organs from getting septic.
Anti-Rheumatic and Anti-Arthritic
Every health condition can be uncomfortable for the sufferers and rheumatism and arthritis are no exceptions. Thankfully, Buchu can bring the much-needed relief to people who suffer from rheumatism and arthritis. The Buchu plant reduces arthritic pain by providing a numbing effect on the affected spot. It also reduces the severity of the problem by eliminating the toxins that are responsible for the pain. In fact, the herb can significantly reduce uric acid too.
Diuretic
Not many people are aware that when there is an excess amount of uric acid in the body, it can result in a number of health issues, including kidney failure and even arthritis. So, it is very necessary to eliminate this excess uric acid from the body and fast too. Luckily, Buchu oil can take care of this by flushing out the excess uric acid, as well as excess salt, body fluids, and fat. It does this by increasing the frequency of urination so that all the waste is eliminated from the body. This helps to cleanse the kidneys and urinary tract and keep them free from infections.
Relieves Bloating
We all have them—those times when we feel a lot of discomfort because of an accumulation of gas in the intestine or stomach. When gas accumulates in the stomach, it can be very discomforting and painful. However, Buchu oil can help to relieve the gas in the digestive tract. Having consumed the Buchu oil, the body immediately starts to experience relief.
Acts as an Insecticide
The several conventional chemical insecticides used to get rid of insects are potentially harmful and can cause a lot of health problems. Finding an organic and natural option is then very essential and Buchu possesses toxic components that can drive the insects away and even kill them. Simply leave a few drops or spray Buchu oil around the house. This can be used outdoors to chase away insects as well.
Side Effects and Precautions
Many of the benefits mentioned above are not confirmed and so may not be considered benefits in some quarters. However, the essential healing properties are popular and accepted.
If you are considering using Buchu products, it is important to observe precautions because of the toxic properties of the herb.
The Bottom Line
Did you know that the little flowers and dried leaves of the Buchu plant are used to produce oils, tinctures, and teas? Interestingly, it can be consumed or topically applied to the body, no matter the form.
Of course, we have established that the herb has a number of health benefits; however, it is important to use its products with caution. This is especially because pugelone, a chemical compound present in the plant is toxic.
Pregnant or nursing women should steer clear of Buchu products. Additionally, people with liver and kidney issues should also be cautious when using the herb.
