ARCTOSTAPHYLOS UVA URSI

Bearberry — A Traditional Urinary Tract Antiseptic with Astringent and Tonic Properties

BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION

Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng.
Common Names: Bearberry, Kinnikinnick, Uva Ursi, Sandberry, Mealberry
Family: Ericaceae

A low-growing, evergreen groundcover shrub found in dry, sandy soils of the Northern Hemisphere — particularly across North America, Europe, and Asia. It features small, leathery leaves, pink urn-shaped flowers, and red drupes (berries) that persist into winter.

The name "uva-ursi" means "grape of the bear" in Latin, referencing the fruit’s popularity among bears.

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL USE

Used by many North American Indigenous tribes — including the Cree, Ojibwe, and Navajo — and adopted by European and colonial herbalists as a kidney and urinary tract remedy:

• Leaf infusions were used to treat bladder infections, kidney stones, and urinary tract inflammation

• Often smoked in ceremonial blends such as kinnikinnick

• Employed in gynecological complaints, especially postpartum recovery

• Traditional European herbal medicine recognized its value as a diuretic and astringent

KEY BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS & BENEFITS

Arbutin is the primary active component, metabolized to hydroquinone in the urine, where it exerts antiseptic effects.

HOW IT WORKS IN THE BODY

• Urinary Antiseptic: Arbutin is converted to hydroquinone in the kidneys, which sterilizes the urinary tract

• Astringent Action: Tannins tone inflamed mucosa, reducing irritation in the bladder and urethra

• Mild Diuretic Effect: Encourages urination, aiding in flushing infections

• Gynecological Recovery: Tones the uterus and pelvic tissues postpartum

DOSE GUIDELINES

Note: Only use short-term (up to 1 week) to avoid hydroquinone accumulation. Combine with demulcents (e.g. marshmallow) to mitigate astringency.

PREPARATION AND USES

• Infusions of dried leaf for mild to moderate urinary tract infections

• Often combined with marshmallow root or cornsilk to soothe mucosa

• Included in smoking blends for ceremonial or calming purposes (non-therapeutic)

• Avoid pairing with acidic foods or supplements — alkaline urine enhances activity

OPTIMAL CONTEXT FOR USE

• Acute UTI symptoms like burning, urgency, or mild cystitis

• Postpartum uterine toning

• Adjunct to antibiotic therapy for recurrent infections (short-term)

• Should not be used as a daily tonic herb — rather, therapeutically for acute flare-ups

SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICAL HARVESTING

• Widely distributed and not endangered, but local populations may be vulnerable to overharvest

• Harvest only mature leaves, and avoid uprooting the plant

• Support cultivation or well-regulated wildcrafted sources

SAFETY AND CAUTIONS

• Short-term use only (≤7 days) due to hydroquinone content

• Not for children, pregnancy, or long-term prophylactic use

• High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, or liver/kidney stress

• Use under supervision when dealing with chronic urinary issues

REFERENCES

• Bradley, P. (1992). British Herbal Compendium

• Bone, K. & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy

• Moerman, D. (1998). Native American Ethnobotany

• Blumenthal, M. et al. (1998). The Complete German Commission E Monographs

FINAL NOTE

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is a potent and time-tested urinary antiseptic, best used acutely and with respect for its pharmacological strength. Long valued by Indigenous North American herbalists and European traditions alike, its careful application can help resolve uncomplicated UTIs and support pelvic tissue integrity — when used short-term, in proper context, and with adequate hydration.