Buchu Leaf (Agathosma betulina) is a herbaceous essential oil with a minty, camphoraceous, fruity aroma and a top note. Steam distillation from leaf, it is a versatile blending oil. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 1%.
South African shrub. Minty camphoraceous blackcurrant-like. Contains pulegone.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Top |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Ketone |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | leaf |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Blending factor | 4 |
| Volatility index | 2 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 4.0 |
Safety & dilution
Contains pulegone (hepatotoxic at high doses). Not for internal use. Avoid during pregnancy.
| Max topical dilution | 1% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.5% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Not recommended |
Safety flags
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Work out exact drops with the dilution calculator for your bottle size.
Frequently asked questions
What does Buchu Leaf essential oil smell like?
Buchu Leaf has a minty, camphoraceous, fruity, herbal aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a top note.
What is the safe dilution for Buchu Leaf?
For topical use, keep Buchu Leaf at or below 1%, and 0.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Buchu Leaf safe to use during pregnancy?
Buchu Leaf is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Buchu Leaf safe to use around children?
Buchu Leaf is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Buchu Leaf safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — avoid; not considered safe. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.