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Buchu Extract

Also known as: Agathosma betulina, Agathosma crenulata, Buchu, Boegoe, Bucco, Bookoo, Diosma

Overview

Buchu is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of *Agathosma betulina* and *Agathosma crenulata*, plants native to South Africa. Traditionally, it has been used for urinary tract infections, prostatitis, and as a flavoring agent. Buchu contains compounds like pulegone, which raises concerns about potential liver toxicity at high doses. Current research is limited, with most evidence stemming from animal or *in vitro* experiments. The quality of available evidence is generally low due to the lack of randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews. Therefore, its efficacy and safety in humans are not well-established, and caution is advised when considering its use.

Benefits

Limited evidence suggests that Buchu may possess antimicrobial, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, primarily based on animal models and *in vitro* studies. Some animal studies also indicate potential benefits for glucose metabolism and cardiovascular health. However, there are no well-documented benefits specific to any human population. The effect sizes and clinical significance of Buchu are not well-established due to the lack of human trials. Therefore, while preliminary research shows promise, more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these benefits in humans.

How it works

The mechanism of action of Buchu is not fully understood, but it may involve the inhibition of COX enzymes and activation of antioxidant pathways. It potentially interacts with the immune system and metabolic pathways. At the molecular level, Buchu has been shown to target COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in laboratory settings. However, the absorption and bioavailability of Buchu's active compounds in the human body are not well-studied, making it difficult to fully elucidate its effects.

Side effects

Buchu is generally considered safe in small amounts, but larger doses may pose risks due to potential liver toxicity. Common side effects include stomach irritation and increased menstrual flow. Uncommon side effects may involve kidney irritation. In rare cases, liver damage has been reported. Drug interactions are largely unknown, but caution is advised when taking Buchu with medications metabolized by the liver. High doses or prolonged use are contraindicated due to liver toxicity risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution when using Buchu.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose and optimal dosage ranges for Buchu are not well-defined. The maximum safe dose is also not clearly established, but high doses are generally discouraged due to potential liver toxicity. There are no specific timing recommendations for Buchu consumption. It is commonly available in tea or extract forms. Absorption factors are not well-studied, and no required cofactors have been identified. Given the limited research, it is crucial to adhere to conservative dosing guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional before using Buchu.

FAQs

Is Buchu safe to use?

Buchu is generally safe in small amounts, but high doses may pose risks due to potential liver toxicity. Use with caution and consult a healthcare professional.

What are the expected results from using Buchu?

Results may vary, and there is limited evidence to support many traditional uses. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy for specific conditions.

How should Buchu be taken?

There are no specific guidelines for timing and administration. It is commonly available in tea or extract forms. Follow product-specific instructions and consult a healthcare provider.

Is Buchu effective for urinary tract infections?

Buchu is often believed to be effective for urinary tract infections, but there is a lack of strong evidence to support this claim. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589899/ – This source is a chapter from a book on liver toxicity. It mentions a case report suggesting possible liver injury from Buchu, though it is rare and not conclusively linked. The report highlights the need for caution when using Buchu due to potential hepatotoxic effects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8859318/ – This study investigates the pharmacological activity of Buchu extracts. It found that Buchu extracts exhibited antimicrobial, analgesic, and antioxidant effects in animal models. These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2013/205048 – This review discusses the traditional uses of Buchu as a medicinal plant. It notes that Buchu has been used for various ailments, but emphasizes the lack of robust clinical evidence to support these uses. The review calls for more rigorous studies to validate Buchu's therapeutic potential.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-180/buchu – This WebMD page provides general information about Buchu. It lists common uses, potential side effects, and safety precautions. It serves as a basic overview but lacks in-depth scientific analysis.
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/2c6d/9ec66aafc25d58102e32aa703df86c0267eb.pdf – This source appears to be a PDF document hosted on Semantic Scholar. Without direct access to the content, it's challenging to provide a specific summary. However, documents on Semantic Scholar often include research papers, conference proceedings, or theses related to scientific topics, potentially offering further insights into Buchu's properties and effects.