Uva Ursi - the best herb to treat urinary tract infections
Uva Ursi, also known as Bearberry is a small shrub that grows to a height of up to 10 cm. The plant's fruits resemble red berries, but it's the leaves that are the raw material used for pharmaceutical purposes.
The etymology of the name Bearberry refers to... bears. According to legend, these animals enjoyed the taste of the bush's fruits so much that they often refrained from attacking humans when the plant was nearby.
Uva Ursi contains:
- phenolic glycosides (arbutin and methylarbutin) – exhibit bactericidal activity against many strains of bacteria,
- mucilages – have anti-inflammatory and protective properties, and also improve intestinal peristalsis,
- tannins – are primarily known for neutralizing free radicals, astringent, and antibacterial properties,
- flavonoids – protect the delicate walls of blood vessels and counteract oxidative stress,
- organic acids (elanic, quinic, and gallic acids) – support the body's immune system and accelerate the removal of residual toxins and harmful metabolic products,
- triterpenes – have strong antioxidant activity and also protect kidney and liver cells.
The active substances contained in bearberry leaves have antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, anticoagulant, antioxidant, and diuretic properties, and they aid digestion and lighten skin discolorations.
Actions and Indications for Use:
Supports Bladder and Urinary Tract Health
UU is most often used to help to treat UTIs and bladder infections (also called cystitis). UU is thought to be capable of helping prevent UTIs, cystitis and swelling of the bladder and urethra due to the presence of glycosides and other anti-inflammatory compounds, including arbutin, tannins and hydroquinone. These help reduce bacteria that can accumulate in the urethra and bladder that lead to infections.It’s also been shown to help manage urinary incontinence (uncontrolled leakage of urine) and shrink and tighten mucous membranes in the body, which help reduce susceptibility to infections.
Supports Kidney Health
As a mild diuretic, uva ursi also has benefits for flushing toxins out of your kidneys. It promotes urination and can help reduce the accumulation of uric acid, which builds up when your kidneys aren't eliminating waste efficiently. This in turn may help to prevent kidney stones from forming.
Diuretics can also help with water retention and bloating that shows up for many women at menstruation.
Supports Postpartum Comfort
Astringent herbs like uva ursi are especially helpful for soothing pain, swelling, and skin tearing postpartum. They tone and tighten tissues that have been damaged during the birth process and calm inflammation. The antimicrobial nature of uva ursi can also help to prevent infection and encourage your skin to heal more quickly. A great way to use it is as an herbal bath, which can be used right after giving birth.
May Aid Wound Healing
Another popular use of uva ursi is in skincare. Allantoin, which is an active compound in uva ursi, has demonstrated an ability to soothe skin and speed wound healing. The arbutin in this herb has two main benefits for our skin – it reduces hyperpigmentation, and it can help to prevent and treat acne. The leaves also possess antimicrobial properties that help to protect wounds from infection.
Bearberry extract also contains antioxidants and tannins that can help to lighten skin and prevent signs of aging. You can find it in serums and other skincare products.
