Uva Ursi – Herbal Cure for Urinary Tract Infections

For centuries, the leaves of this small shrub have been used as an herbal folk medicine for centuries as a mild diuretic and astringent. Even until today, this shrub is said to be an effective cure for urinary tract infections. Uva Ursi is a trailing evergreen shrub that flourishes in alpine forests in many regions, including North America, Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, Siberia, and the Himalayas. The plant thrives in humus-rich soil. Uva Ursi is a dwarfed evergreen perennial with short, creeping, red-brown branches. Pink or white bell-shaped flowers bloom in the spring. Bears are said to be fond of the shiny, bright red or pink berries, which are edible but sour tasting.
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi), also known as bearberry, has a history of medicinal use dating back to the second century. Native Americans used it as a remedy for urinary tract infections. In fact, until the discovery of sulfa drugs and antibiotics, Uva Ursi was the treatment of choice for such bladder and urinary tract-related infections.
Uva Ursi contains chemicals, primarily hydroquinone and hydroquinone derivatives, that make it potentially useful for urinary conditions and is used to treat infections such as cystitis, urethritis and nephritis. The hydroquinone derivative, Arbutin, is the chief active compound in Uva Ursi. It is absorbed in the stomach and converted into a substance with antimicrobial, astringent, and disinfectant properties.
During urination, as it passes out of the body, it acts on the mucus membranes of the urinary tract to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and fight infection. Interestingly, Arbutin taken alone is not as effective as the whole Uva Uusi plant in controlling urinary tract infections. That's because intestinal bacteria can break down Arbutin, but they are less likely to do so in the presence of other Uva Ursi compounds.
Most urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria. Escherichia coli is the main bacteria responsible for the infection. Uva ursi also contains diuretic chemicals, including ursolic acid, powerful astringents, and a chemical that helps promote the growth of healthy new cells, allatoin. In addition to its antiseptic and astringent actions, uva ursi may help to flush out bacteria by promoting urination.
Uva Ursi can help to reduce accumulations of uric acid and relieve the pain of bladder stones. It is also helpful for chronic diarrhea. As a nutritional supplement and muscle relaxant, uva ursi soothes, strengthens, and tightens irritated and inflamed tissues.
Such amazing traits for a small wonder!