Photo: Ghislain118 http://www.fleurs-des-montagnes.net · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
Uva Ursi (Bearberry)
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Family: Ericaceae | Parts Used: Leaves
Bearberry, also known as Uva Ursi, is an evergreen shrub native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It has been used for centuries as a urinary tract antiseptic and tonic. The leaves contain arbutin, tannins, and flavonoids that contribute to its traditionally used for wellness and astringent properties.
Traditional Uses
- Powerful urinary antiseptic that reduces bacteria in urine
- Natural diuretic that increases urine flow
- anti-inflammatory properties reduce urinary tract swelling
- Astringent action tones urinary mucous membranes
- Antioxidant compounds protect cells from damage
- Traditionally used for urinary tract infections, cystitis, and urethritis
- Astringent effect on the gastrointestinal tract for chronic diarrhea
- Tonic effect on the reproductive system
- Skin-lightening and antioxidant properties when applied topically
- Helps dissolve kidney and bladder stones
Properties
Key Constituents
Preparations & Dosage
- Infusion
- Tincture
- Capsule
- Cold maceration
- Standardized extract
Cautions
- Intended for short-term use only (one to two weeks).
- Not recommended for those with kidney disorders.
- May cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort.
- Avoid during pregnancy and in children.
- Urine may turn greenish-brown during use.
- Contraindications: children, kidney-disease, pregnancy, short-term-only
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Grows in rocky, sandy soil in cold climates. USDA zones 2-6. Prefers acidic to neutral soil in full sun.
Sources & Research
Published Research:
Risk assessment of free hydroquinone derived from Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi folium herbal preparations | International journal of toxicology (2013)
In Vitro immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory Activity of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Leaf Extract against Cutibacterium a... | Pharmaceutics (2022)
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi L. leaves extract and its modified cysteine preparation for the management of insulin resista... | Natural products and bioprospecting (2022)
Chemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi L. Spreng. at the Southern Border of the... | Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) (2021)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.