What Is Uva Ursi?
The leaves of this small shrub have been used as an herbal folk medicine for centuries as a mild diuretic and astringent, and in the treatment of urinary tract infections such as cystitis, urethritis and nephritis, pyelitis and in pyelonephritis. Uva-ursi can help to reduce accumulations of uric acid and relieve the pain of bladder stones. Uva Ursi is also helpful for chronic diarrhea. As a nutritional supplement and muscle relaxant, Uva Ursi soothes, strengthens, and tightens irritated and inflamed tissues. Uva Ursi has a history of medicinal use dating back to the 2nd century. It has been widely used as a diuretic, astringent, and antiseptic. Folk medicine around the world has recommended Uva Ursi for nephritis, kidney stones, and chronic cystitis. The herb has also been used as a general tonic for weakened kidneys, liver or pancreas. Native Americans used it as a remedy for headaches, to prevent and cure scurvy and to treat urinary tract infections. In fact, until the discovery of s
Uva ursi is a small shrub native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It can be found growing in hilly areas, mountainous regions, and various other northern latitudes. It is particularly profuse in Scotland, where it thrives in the highlands and hills of the country. In North America, it is found growing throughout Canada and as far south as Wisconsin in the United States. The name uva ursi means “the bear’s grape,” which is derived from both Latin and Greek origins. The plant is also known as bearberry because bears of all kinds seem to enjoy eating its fruit. Another theory suggests that this common name may have originated from the unpleasant flavor, which many label as “fit only for bears.” In appearance, uva ursi has many branches containing short, woody stems which form thick masses growing up to 24 inches (60 centimeters) in length. The shrub is evergreen, with its leathery leaves growing up to one inch (2.5 centimeters) long, with a rounded apex. The upper sides of uva ursi lea
What is it used for? Uva ursi is a small, evergreen shrub that grows in colder northern climates, including North America, Europe, Siberia, and the Himalayas. The shrub contains small, thumb-shaped green leaves, pinkish-white flowers, and reddish or pinkish berries. Bears are believed to be especially fond of the berries; hence the plant’s two nicknames, “bearberry” and “beargrape.” Both the leaves and berries are used in herbal preparations.
