UVA URSI (Arctostaphylos - a.k.a. Bearberry)

DESCRIPTION: Used to strengthen and tone the urinary passages. The uva ursi shrub produces pink and white flowers, orange berries and leathery, dark leaves. It grows throughout the northern hemisphere. This herb is also known as bearberry.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Mainly used to treat UTI (urinary tract infections), bladder infections, cystitis, nephritis, kidney infections and urethritis. Uva ursi kills bacteria and lessens swelling in urine, including bladder and kidney infections. It also is used to treat arthritis and dermatitis and reduces irritation.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Uva Ursi has been associated with brownish or greenish urine, nausea, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and upset stomach in a dose of 6,000 mg (6 grams) or higher taken at one time. Uva ursi may cause seizures or cyanosis (a blue tint to the skin caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood). Single doses of 30,000 mg (30 grams) or higher have been reported to cause death. If consumed in large doses, the result can include nausea, vomiting, urine discoloration and a ringing sound in the ears, as well as causing someone to collapse. Avoid using this herb if you are pregnant or nursing.

PARTS USED: Leaves

GENERAL USAGE: Uva ursi is used to treat urinary tract inflammations, arthritis and dermatitis. Take as directed.

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