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Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) plant
Urinary

Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Photo: Roger Culos · CC BY-SA 3.0

  • Urinary
  • 3 conditions
  • Licensed photo

Overview

Uva-ursi is a low-lying evergreen shrub growing to 20 inches tall with long trailing stems, dark green leaves that are glossy on the upper side, bell-shaped pink flowers, and small glossy red berries. The name means 'bear's grape' in Latin, as bears are fond of the fruit. Native to Europe and naturalized throughout the northern hemisphere up to the Arctic, it grows in damp undergrowth, heathland, and grassland conditions. The plant was first documented in The Physicians of Myddfai, a 13th-century Welsh herbal text.

Traditional uses & properties

The leaves contain hydroquinones (mainly arbutin, up to 17%) and tannins (up to 15%).

Amounts reported by sources

Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.

Safety & precautions

Do not take during pregnancy or with kidney disease. Not suitable for children under 12. Not suitable if there is a simultaneous kidney infection. Use only for short periods, under professional guidance. Not for use in cases involving fluid deficiency, wasting, or dryness. Not recommended for long-term use due to strong astringency. Prolonged use may irritate the stomach and cause constipation.

Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.

Drug interactions

Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.

Habitat

Native to Europe and naturalized throughout the northern hemisphere up to the Arctic. Grows in damp conditions in undergrowth, heathland, and grassland. Leaves are gathered in autumn.

Traditionally used for

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Frequently asked questions

What is Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) traditionally used for?

Traditional sources describe Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) as follows: The leaves contain hydroquinones (mainly arbutin, up to 17%) and tannins (up to 15%).

How is Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) prepared?

Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.

What safety cautions apply to Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)?

Do not take during pregnancy or with kidney disease. Not suitable for children under 12. Not suitable if there is a simultaneous kidney infection. Use only for short periods, under professional guidance. Not for use in cases involving fluid deficiency, wasting, or dryness. Not recommended for long-term use due to strong astringency. Prolonged use may irritate the stomach and cause constipation.