Plant Part Used
Leaf
Introduction
Uva ursi has been used worldwide as a diuretic, astringent and antiseptic for centuries. Uva ursi, or bearberry, is a low growing evergreen shrub found native in many parts of the world.
Dosage Info
Dosage Range
100-200mg (standardized extract) daily.
Most Common Dosage
100mg (standardized extract), 2 times a day.
Standardization
[span class=doc]Standardization represents the complete body of information and controls that serve to enhance the batch to batch consistency of a botanical product, including but not limited to the presence of a marker compound at a defined level or within a defined range.[/span]
The most current available medical and scientific literature indicates that this dietary supplement should be standardized to 10-25% arbutin per dose.
Reported Uses
Uva ursi has historically been used to support the kidneys and urinary tract. It is believed that uva ursi may have an antiseptic effect on the tissues of the kidneys and urinary tract, thereby lessening the pain from such disorders as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and nephritis. (1)
A case was reported that after taking uva ursi for 3 years, symptoms of bilateral bull’s-eye maculopathy developed. (2)
Toxicities & Precautions
Introduction
[span class=alert]Be sure to tell your pharmacist, doctor, or other health care providers about any dietary supplements you are taking. There may be a potential for interactions or side effects.[/span]
General
If you have any type of kidney disorder, do not take this herb. (3)
An overdose of this dietary supplement may cause tinnitus, nausea, stomach upset, vomiting, shortness of breath, sense of suffocation, convulsions, delirium and collapse. (4)
This dietary supplement may turn the urine green.
Health Conditions
If you have cystitis talk to your doctor before taking this dietary supplement. (5)
Pregnancy/ Breast Feeding
This dietary supplement should not be used in pregnant women. (6)
This dietary supplement should not be used if you are breast-feeding an infant without first consulting a physician.
Age Limitations
This dietary supplement should not be used in children under 12 years of age unless recommended by a physician.
References
- View Abstract: Matsuda H, et al. Pharmacological Studies on Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng. III. Combined Effect of Arbutin and Prednisolone or Dexamethazone on Immuno-inflammation. Yakugaku Zasshi. 1991;111(4-5):68-76.
- View Abstract: Wang L, Del Priore LV. Bull’s-eye maculopathy secondary to herbal toxicity from uva ursi. Am J Ophthalmol. Jun2004;137(6):1135-7.
- Newall CA, et al. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press; 1996:258-59.
- Uva ursi. Merck Index. 12th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co; 1996:1688.
- Uvae ursi folium. German Commission E Monograph. May1984;Bundesanzeiger:no.228.
- Newall CA, et al. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press; 1996:258-59.
