Buchu – what is it, benefits and side effects!

Buchu is a plant used as a remedy to disinfect the urinary tract during infections of the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), prostate (prostatitis) or kidney (pyelonephritis). It is also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases.

In manufacturing, the oil is used to impart a fruity (often black currant) flavor to skin foods .

How does buchu work? 

It is believed that the active chemicals in buchu can kill germs and also promote the flow of urine.

Uses and effectiveness?

• Urinary Tract Infections;
• Kidney Infections;
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases;
• Other problems;

Side effects:

Buchu is very safe in food amounts and is possibly safe when used properly in medicinal amounts. But it is unsafe in larger amounts and when the oil is consumed.

It can irritate the stomach and kidneys and increase menstrual flow. In addition, it can also cause liver damage, so liver function in people using it should be monitored by a healthcare professional.

Special precautions and warnings:

1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Do not use in larger amounts than normal food amounts if you are pregnant. Also, buchu is likely unsafe when taken during pregnancy. There have been reports linking buchu to miscarriages.

If you are breastfeeding, it is safe in moderate amounts, but do not take larger amounts. Also, not enough is known about safety while breastfeeding.

2. Bleeding disorders:

It can slow blood clotting and increase bleeding. In theory, it can worsen bleeding disorders.

3. Kidney infections:

Although some people use buchu for kidney infections, health experts do not recommend it from water .

4. Urinary tract inflammation:

Do not use buchu if you have pain and swelling in your urinary tract.

5. Surgery:

It can slow down blood clotting. There is some concern that this could increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Also, stop using at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

6. Lithium:

Buchu can have a “diuretic” effect. Taking it can decrease the body’s ability to eliminate lithium. Also, it can increase the amount of lithium in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose may need to be changed.

Medicines that slow blood clotting (anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs) In addition, it may slow blood clotting. Taking it along with medications that also slow clotting can increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.

Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin ( Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin) and others.

Dosage:

The appropriate dose depends on a number of factors such as age, health and various other issues of the user. Furthermore, at this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses.

Keep in mind that natural products are not always safe and dosages can be important. Also, follow relevant instructions on product labels and consult your pharmacist, physician or other healthcare professional before use.