Condition
Treatment Support
urinary antiseptic
Application
tincture, tea, capsule
Uva Ursi
(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Also know as Bearberry
Botanical Information
A low-growing or creeping woody shrub with red branches, pink urn-shaped flowers in clusters, and bright red berries.
Working with Uva Ursi
Part(s) Used
Herb
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs
“Uva ursi is used for bladder infection, gravel, prostatitis, and nephritis. The herb is an effective herbal diuretic. Arbutin, its main active principle, is a urinary antiseptic. The tannins in uva ursi make it useful for diarrhea.
Uva Ursi has a taste of BITTER, ASTRINGENT and a temperature of COLD.”
Historical Uses
- Traditional Medicine: Uva ursi has been used for centuries in European, Native American, and Chinese medicine for its diuretic and antiseptic properties, primarily for urinary tract issues.
- Folk Uses: Used to treat kidney stones, bladder infections, and as a general urinary tract tonic.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
- Commonly recommended for short-term treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly when symptoms are mild.
- Often used in combination with other urinary antiseptics and herbs to support bladder health.
- Occasionally used for inflammatory bladder conditions, like cystitis.
Chemistry
- Contains active compounds such as:
- Arbutin (primary active): Converts to hydroquinone, which has antimicrobial effects in the urinary tract.
- Tannins: Astringent properties.
- Flavonoids and phenolic acids: Provide antioxidant effects.
- Arbutin content varies based on the plant’s growth conditions and harvesting methods.
Pharmacology
- Arbutin is metabolized into hydroquinone, which is excreted through the urine, exerting antiseptic effects in the urinary tract.
- Demonstrates mild diuretic activity.
- Tannins contribute to its astringent and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Summary of Clinical Trials
- Few high-quality clinical trials exist for uva ursi. Some small studies show its efficacy in reducing UTI symptoms due to its antimicrobial activity, especially against E. coli.
- A combination of uva ursi and dandelion root showed promise in preventing recurrent UTIs in women.
- Most clinical evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional use, highlighting the need for larger, controlled studies.
Conclusion
Uva ursi remains a widely used herbal remedy for urinary tract health due to its historical reputation and modest antimicrobial activity. However, concerns about safety with prolonged use and the limited clinical evidence suggest it should be used cautiously and under professional guidance.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Short-term use: Generally safe when taken as directed. Should not be used for longer than 7–10 days without professional guidance.
Potential side effects: Nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset due to tannins. High doses or long-term use may cause liver toxicity or ringing in the ears (ototoxicity).
Contraindications: Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in children under 12. Avoid in individuals with kidney disease or those prone to tannin sensitivity. Do not use this herb is you have kidney disorders, irritated digestive conditions, or acidic urine.
Interactions: May interact with diuretics, anticoagulants, and medications metabolized by the liver.
Conditions treated with Uva Ursi
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
astringent, antimicrobial, antiparasitic
Application
tea as a douche, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tincture, tea, capsule
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
