Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi), also known as bearberry, is frequently used as an astringent (which causes skin tissue to tighten), a mild diuretic (which promotes urination), and as treatment for urinary tract infection. The plant has a long history of medicinal use dating back to the 2nd century. Native Americans used it as a remedy for urinary tract infections, and, in later centuries, uva ursi was the treatment of choice for bladder infections in the United States until the discovery of sulfa drugs and antibiotics. Lab studies show that uva ursi has antibacterial properties and that arbutin, the chief active compound in uva ursi, forms hydroquinone, which produces antiseptic and astringent effects.

Uva ursi is a trailing evergreen shrub that flourishes in alpine forests in many regions, including North America, Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, Siberia, and the Himalayas. The plant thrives in humus-rich soil. Uva ursi is a dwarf, evergreen perennial with short, creeping, red-brown branches. Pink or white bell-shaped flowers bloom in the spring. Bears are said to be fond of the shiny, bright red or pink berries, which are edible but sour tasting.

The leaves are used in medicinal preparations.

Uva ursi is used to treat urinary tract infections and inflammation.

Uva ursi is commercially available as crushed leaf or powder preparations.

Pediatric

• Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Adult

Recommended adult doses are:

• Standard dose: 10 to 12 g crushed leaf or powder (400 to 840 mg hydroquinone derivatives as water-free arbutin) per day
• Dry extract: 100 to 210 mg hydroquinone derivatives (as water-free arbutin) one to four times per day
• Fluid extract (1:1 g/mL): 3 mL (corresponding to 400 to 840 mg arbutin) one to four times per day
• Tincture (1:5): 3 mL three to four times per day

While the herb is considered generally safe when taken in recommended doses, side effects have been reported, including irritability, insomnia, and an increased heart rate. Uva ursi should be consumed only in limited quantities and for no more than a few days. Higher doses can lead to drug dependence and irregular heartbeat, and long-term use can cause problems with the bladder and urinary tract.

Check with a health care professional before taking uva ursi. Pregnant women, women who are breast-feeding, children under 12 years of age, or people with anxiety, high blood pressure, and certain other health conditions should not use this herb.

Based upon animal studies, uva ursi may increase the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroid medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as dexamethasone, prednisolone, and indomethacin. Additional studies are needed to confirm whether uva ursi could increase the effects of these medications in people.

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