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Herb Reference » Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Ericaceae

Uva Ursi has a specific antiseptic and astringent effect upon the membranes of the urinary system.

HabitatBritain, Central and Northern Europe, North America
Constituents Hydroquinones: mainly arbutin (hydroquinone(beta)-glucoside) and methylarbutin
Iridoids: monotropein
Flavonoids: quercitrin, isoquercitrin, myricacitrin and others
Miscellaneous: tannins, volatile oil, ursolic, malic and gallic acids
Actions Diuretic, astringent, anti-microbial, demulcent
Indications

Uva Ursi has a specific antiseptic and astringent effect upon the membranes of the urinary system. It will generally soothe, tone and strengthen them. It is specifically used where there is gravel or ulceration in the kidney or bladder.

It may be used in the treatment of infections such aspyelitis and cystitis or as part of a holistic approach to more chronic kidney problems. It has a useful role to play in the treatment of gravel or a calculus in the kidney. With its high astringency it is used in some forms of bedwetting. As a douche it may be helpful in vaginal ulceration and infection.

Ellingwood gives the following specific symptomatolgy: Its direct influence is upon relaxed conditions of the bladder walls, to which it imparts tone and induces normal contraction. It restrains excessive mucous discharges. He recommends for these indications: ulceration of the bladder, cystitis, pyelitis, pyelonephritis, gonorrhea.

CombinationUva Ursi may be combined with couchgrass and yarrow for infections of the urinary tract.
Preparation & dosage
Infusion
Pour a cup of boiling water onto l-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried leaves and let infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture
Take 2-4ml of the tincture three times a day.
© David L. Hoffmann B.Sc. (Hons), M.N.I.M.H.