Rootwork

Uva Ursi

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

EricaceaeNorthern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia

Description

overall appearance

Low-growing evergreen shrub forming dense mats; trailing stems reach 3-6 feet long but only 6 inches tall.

roots

Shallow, fibrous root system with extensive horizontal spread; forms mycorrhizal associations.

stem

Woody, trailing stems; reddish-brown bark; branches root at nodes creating new plants.

leaves

Small, evergreen leaves 1/2-1 inch long; oval to spatulate shape; thick, leathery texture; shiny dark green.

flowers

Small, pink to white bell-shaped flowers in terminal clusters; appear in late spring to early summer.

fruits/seeds

Bright red berries containing 5 seeds; dry and mealy texture; important food for bears and birds.

Active Compounds

Arbutin (5-15%; converted to hydroquinone; urinary antiseptic)Hydroquinone (active metabolite; antimicrobial)Tannins (gallic acid, ellagic acid; astringent, anti-inflammatory)Flavonoids (quercetin, myricetin; antioxidant, anti-inflammatory)Triterpenes (ursolic acid; anti-inflammatory)Allantoin (wound healing, tissue repair)

Traditional Uses

  • Urinary tract infections and cystitis
  • Kidney and bladder stones
  • Prostate disorders and inflammation
  • Diarrhea and digestive inflammation
  • Wounds and skin conditions
  • Traditional smoking mixture

Modern Applications

  • Urinary tract infection treatment
  • Bladder and kidney health support
  • Antimicrobial and antiseptic effects
  • Anti-inflammatory support
  • Astringent for digestive issues
  • Research into antibiotic-resistant bacteria

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
  • Children under 12 years
  • Kidney disease or kidney stones
  • Liver disease (hydroquinone metabolism)

Side Effects

  • Nausea and stomach irritation
  • Green discoloration of urine (harmless but alarming)
  • Liver damage with long-term use
  • Tinnitus (ringing in ears) with excessive doses

Drug Interactions

  • Lithium (may affect elimination)
  • Diuretic medications
  • NSAIDs (may increase kidney stress)
  • Medications that acidify urine (may reduce effectiveness)

Parts Used

  • Leaves (primary medicinal use)
  • Dried leaf preparations
  • Standardized extracts
  • Traditional smoking mixtures

Preparation Methods

1-2 teaspoons dried leaves per cup; steep 15-20 minutes

Leaves soaked in cold water 12-24 hours (reduces tannin extraction)

1:5 ratio with 40% alcohol; macerate dried leaves 4 weeks

Capsules with guaranteed arbutin content

Ground leaves for topical wound healing

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Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.