The buchu plant is native to South Africa and grows in the mountains of the Cape Province. It has been used as a traditional medicine by the Khoisan people for many years. It has been described as having a strong smell of blackcurrant. Buchu is an evergreen, aromatic shrub with simple wrinkled leaves about 1 cm (0.5 inch) long. It has conspicuous oil glands that release a strong, blackcurrant-like aroma. The delicate stem bears five-petalled white flowers with purple anthers that appear in the spring. It is said by some that Buchu has a substance that can block out ultraviolet light.

Aside from relieving the body from excess gas, buchu oil also aids digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive juices.

This essential oil increases urination. This allows the body to rid itself of uric acid, excess water and excess salts. It also protects the urinary tract and kidneys from infections. Buchu is also an insect repellent, keeping away flies, mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs, lice and parasites.

Buchu can be mixed with a carrier oil to relieve dry and itchy skin, calm irritations or assist with joint inflammation and pain.

It Can Be Used To:

• Soothe arthritic & rheumatic pain
• Ease cramping & spasms
• Cool irritated skin
• Relieve dryness & itching

Caution:

Buchu should not be used during pregnancy. May affect sensitive skin. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.