Uva Ursi Leaf ( Arctostaphylos uva ursi )

Description

Uva Ursi Leaf contains tannins that may have astringent effects, helping to shrink and tighten mucous membranes in the body. In turn, that may help reduce inflammation and fight infection.  Uva Ursi is used and may address urinary tract infections (UTIs) and cystitis (bladder inflammation).

Uva ursiis an evergreen plant that produces red berries and is said to help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections, though research is limited. It’s also been used to treat dark skin patches, though little research supports this treatment. The plant, whose scientific name is Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.

In traditional Uva Ursi Leaf or herbal medicine, uva ursi has been used to treat disorders of the excretory system, including:

• Pain upon urinating
• Cystitis, an inflamed bladder
• Urethritis, an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body
• Stones in the kidney or bladder
• Sluggish urine flow
• Constipation

The active component of uva ursi is suspected to be hydroquinone, and particularly arbutin and methyl arbutin which may have antiinflammatory and antiseptic activities that are excreted in the urine. Uva ursi has been used to treat dysuria, cystitis, urethritis, and kidney and bladder stones.

Normasherbs

This information is for educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. 
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This is not a substitute for treatment advice, diagnosis or advice by a licensed physician. 
This is not meant to cover all possible precautions, circumstances, drug interactions, or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care if any health issues arise and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your routine.