Evidence supporting the use of: Short Buchu
For the health condition: Bladder Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Buchu (Agathosma betulina and related species), often referred to as "Short Buchu," has a long history of traditional use in South African folk medicine, especially among indigenous Khoisan people and early Dutch settlers, for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder inflammation. The leaves of the plant were commonly brewed into teas or tinctures with the belief that they could relieve symptoms related to the bladder and urinary tract.

Some phytochemical studies have shown that Buchu contains volatile oils, including diosphenol, which might possess mild antiseptic and diuretic properties. However, despite its longstanding use, there is a lack of robust modern clinical trials that conclusively demonstrate Buchu’s efficacy or safety for treating bladder infections in humans. Most available evidence is anecdotal or comes from in vitro studies showing weak antimicrobial activity against some urinary pathogens. Major health authorities (e.g., NIH, EMA) do not endorse Buchu as a validated treatment for UTIs or bladder infections due to insufficient clinical evidence.

In summary, Buchu’s use for bladder infections is rooted in traditional medicine, with only limited scientific exploration and no high-quality clinical validation. It may offer mild symptomatic relief due to its diuretic effects, but should not replace evidence-based therapies for UTIs.

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