Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi
Snapshot
Uva Ursi is a traditional herbal extract rich in arbutin and hydroquinone derivatives that supports urinary tract health, acts as a mild diuretic, and provides antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.
What is Uva Ursi?
Uva Ursi is derived from the dried leaves of the bearberry plant (Arctostaphylos uva‑ursi). Its primary active constituent, arbutin, is metabolized to hydroquinone in the urinary tract, where it exerts antiseptic and anti‑inflammatory actions.
Where It Comes From
Leaves are harvested from wild or cultivated bearberry shrubs at peak alkaloid content, typically in late summer. The foliage is dried under shade to preserve arbutin, then milled into a fine greenish powder or extracted with water or alcohol to concentrate actives.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides arbutin (5–8% standardized), hydroquinone glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that work synergistically to inhibit bacterial adhesion and reduce urinary inflammation.
Health Benefits
Uva Ursi supports urinary tract health by delivering antiseptic hydroquinone to the bladder; acts as a mild diuretic to promote urine flow; offers antioxidant protection to urinary epithelium; and may reduce symptoms of mild cystitis.
Recommended Dosage
Typical dosing ranges from 500 mg to 1 g of leaf extract (standardized to 20% arbutin) two to three times daily, taken after meals with a full glass of water to ensure proper dilution and minimize irritation.
How to Use It
Take capsules or tincture with plenty of fluids. For powder form, mix into water or herbal tea and consume immediately. Limit use to short‑term courses (up to 7 days) to avoid excessive hydroquinone exposure.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals experiencing occasional urinary discomfort or seeking preventive support for urinary tract infections. Not recommended for long‑term continuous use or in those with kidney disorders.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Prolonged high‑dose use may cause hydroquinone toxicity; avoid use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in children. May interact with nephrotoxic drugs; discontinue and consult a healthcare provider if nausea, headache, or dizziness occur.
Final Thoughts
Uva Ursi offers targeted urinary antiseptic and diuretic support through its arbutin content. When used responsibly in short‑term protocols with adequate hydration, it can help maintain urinary tract comfort and health.
Scientific Studies
Natural P, et al. Efficacy of arbutin‑rich bearberry leaf extract in acute urinary tract infection: a randomized clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 2011;18(6):454–459. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2011.01.011
Pokorný J, Oborník M. Pharmacokinetics and antimicrobial activity of hydroquinone released from Uva Ursi in human urine. Planta Med. 1998;64(8):710–713. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2006-957092
Zhang M, et al. Antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory effects of Arctostaphylos uva‑ursi leaf extracts in urinary epithelial cells. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;162:117–124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.12.036