Buchu Crenulata

Two species are traded as buchu. Round-leaf buchu, Agathosma betulina, and oval-leaf buchu, Agathosma crenulata, grow in overlapping ranges in the Western Cape and are often confused at harvest. Their oils differ, and crenulata is the pulegone-rich species.

01 · Origin

A small evergreen shrub of the citrus family, Rutaceae, endemic to the mountain fynbos of the Western Cape. The leaves are dotted with oil glands visible against the light. This oil is distilled in South Africa from wild-harvested leaves.

02 · Chemistry

Pulegone leads. Menthone, isomenthone and the isopulegones follow, with limonene and myrcene in the lighter fraction. The menthone group gives the minty register. Sulphur-containing trace compounds characteristic of the genus carry the blackcurrant facet.

03 · In Practice

Fruity, minty and sharply herbaceous, with a cassis note. A top note. Pulegone content calls for low concentration. Natural perfumery, particularly fruit and green accords, diffusion and olfactory study. Blends with lemon, bergamot, spearmint, lavender, geranium and rosemary.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.