Buchu (Barosma betulina) vs Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Buchu (Barosma betulina)

Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

About

Buchu is a strongly aromatic, bushy shrub reaching about 6½ ft (2 m), with slightly leathery, dotted leaves that release a distinctive scent. Indigenous peoples of South Africa have long valued buchu as a general stimulant, diuretic, and digestive aid. In contemporary Western herbal medicine, it is prized mainly as a urinary antiseptic and diuretic, traditionally employed for cystitis, bladder infections, irritable bladder, and sometimes prostatitis.

Uva-ursi is a low-lying evergreen shrub growing to 20 inches tall with long trailing stems, dark green leaves that are glossy on the upper side, bell-shaped pink flowers, and small glossy red berries. The name means 'bear's grape' in Latin, as bears are fond of the fruit. Native to Europe and naturalized throughout the northern hemisphere up to the Arctic, it grows in damp undergrowth, heathland, and grassland conditions. The plant was first documented in The Physicians of Myddfai, a 13th-century Welsh herbal text.

Safety & precautions

Dryness & Acute Inflammation: Not recommended if dryness predominates or if there is active, acute inflammation of the urinary tract. Children Under Two: Generally contraindicated for very young children. Pregnancy: Because buchu contains pulegone (a uterine stimulant), it should be avoided during pregnancy unless advised by a qualified healthcare practitioner. High Dosages: Potentially toxic in excessive amounts.

Do not take during pregnancy or with kidney disease. Not suitable for children under 12. Not suitable if there is a simultaneous kidney infection. Generally advisable to take for no more than 7-10 days at a time. Not for use in cases involving fluid deficiency, wasting, or dryness. Not recommended for long-term use due to strong astringency. Prolonged use may irritate the stomach and cause constipation.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.