Buchu Essential Oil
Agathosma betulina / Agathosma crenulata
Buchu Essential Oil is a steam-distilled essential oil obtained from the leaves of Agathosma betulina and Agathosma crenulata, indigenous to South Africa.
Selected for its distinctive blackcurrant-like aroma and high impact at low inclusion levels, it is used in flavour, fragrance and cosmetic formulations where character and intensity are required.
Origin & Sourcing
- Origin: Western Cape, South Africa
- Botanical Species: Agathosma betulina / Agathosma crenulata
- Raw Material: Buchu leaves
- Supply Chain: Cultivated and wild harvested
- Traceability: Batch traceable from origin to export
Buchu is endemic to the Cape floral region, with sourcing structured to ensure consistent quality and sustainable harvesting practices.
Processing
- Method: Steam distillation
- Raw Material: Dried or fresh leaves
- Additives: None
The distillation process captures the oil’s volatile aromatic compounds while preserving its characteristic profile.
Aromatic & Performance Profile
Buchu Essential Oil is characterised by its intense, diffusive and highly recognisable aroma.
- Aromatic Profile
Strong blackcurrant, green, slightly sulphurous (“catty”) - High Impact at Low Dosage
Used in very low concentrations due to the intensity - Top Note Behaviour
Provides lift and brightness in fragrance compositions - Diffusive Character
Enhances projection and perception in blends - Compositional Characteristics
Typically rich in compounds such as diosphenol and sulphur-containing constituents
This profile makes it particularly effective in fine fragrance, flavour systems and specialised aromatic formulations.
Technical Information
- INCI Name: Agathosma Betulina Leaf Oil / Agathosma Crenulata Leaf Oil
- CAS Number: 68650-46-4
- Extraction: Steam distilled
- Appearance: Pale yellow to amber liquid
- Odour: Strong, characteristic
Each batch is supported by:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Documentation is available upon request or download.
Applications
Buchu Essential Oil is used across a range of applications:
- Perfumery
Top note modifier and character ingredient - Flavour Systems
Used in trace amounts for blackcurrant profiles - Cosmetic Formulations
Aromatic enhancement in specialised products - Fragrance Blending
Adds lift, brightness and distinctiveness
It is particularly suited to formulations requiring impact, diffusion and recognisable character.
OrigiPackaging & Supply
- Supplied in controlled volumes due to potency
- Packaging configured according to order size
- Available for formulation and industrial use
Due to its intensity, low inclusion rates are typically required in finished formulations.
Handling & Storage
- Store in a cool, dry environment
- Protect from light and heat
- Keep containers tightly sealed
Handling is important to preserve aromatic integrity and prevent volatilisation.
Quality & Certification
Produced in line with international essential oil standards
- Steam distilled
- Batch traceable
- Produced in line with international essential oil standards
FAQs
What is Buchu Essential Oil?
A steam-distilled essential oil obtained from Agathosma betulina or Agathosma crenulata, valued for its distinctive aromatic profile.
Why is it used at low levels?
Due to its high aromatic intensity, very small quantities are sufficient in formulations.
Is this oil suitable for perfumery?
Yes. It is widely used as a character note in fragrance compositions.
Do you provide documentation?
Yes. COA, TDS and SDS are available per batch.
Can I request a sample?
Yes. Samples are available on request, subject to availability.