What is Uva Ursi?
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), also known as bearberry, is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Its name means "bear's grape" in Latin, as bears are known to eat its small red berries. However, in herbal medicine, it is the leathery green leaves that are most valued.
Traditionally used by Indigenous peoples and later adopted into European herbal practice, this herb has long been associated with urinary tract support. Its key active compound, arbutin, is converted in the body into hydroquinone, a substance known for its antimicrobial properties. The leaves also contain tannins and flavonoids, which contribute to their astringent and soothing effects.
Today, this herb is most commonly used in short-term herbal protocols designed to support urinary tract health and bladder comfort.
Health Benefits of Uva Ursi
This herb has been well studied for its ability to prevent and decrease the severity of:
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney infections
- Kidney stones
It contains a compound called arbutin, which kills bacteria, especially in alkaline urine. Arbutin is also analgesic, and studies show its pain-relieving effect is equivalent to some other pharmaceutical pain relievers.
Uva Ursi Supplements
Uva ursi can be purchased as a raw herb for tea, encapsulated herb or tincture. Standardized supplements give assurance that active chemicals are present in the formula.
Combination products for urinary tract infections and kidney stones may contain this herb. Whole plant preparations, as opposed to formulas of purified, extracted chemical constituents, work best. There are other molecules in this herb that protect the active chemicals as they pass through the digestive tract and alkalinize the urine.
Cautions & Considerations
This herb may cause a harmless green-brown discolouration of the urine. Do not use uva ursi if you are pregnant or lactating, or have kidney failure. This herb should not be used for longer than 7-10 days or by children.
