Latin Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Herb Class/Action: Uva Ursi is classified as a urinary antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory herb.
Parts of Plant Used: The leaves of the Uva Ursi plant are used for medicinal purposes.
Flavors: Uva Ursi leaves have a slightly bitter and astringent taste.
Energetics: Uva Ursi is energetically cooling and drying.
Medicinal Properties:
- Urinary Tract Health: Uva Ursi is primarily used to support urinary tract health and treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). It contains compounds such as arbutin and hydroquinone that have antimicrobial properties and help inhibit the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. Uva Ursi helps alleviate symptoms of UTIs such as painful urination, frequent urination, and urinary urgency.
- Anti-inflammatory Action: Uva Ursi has anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract and soothe irritated tissues. It may be beneficial for conditions such as cystitis, urethritis, and prostatitis. Uva Ursi also supports kidney health by reducing inflammation and promoting the elimination of waste products.
- Astringent Properties: Uva Ursi has astringent properties that tone and tighten mucous membranes in the urinary tract, reducing excessive mucus production and improving tissue integrity. It helps shrink swollen tissues, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort associated with urinary tract infections.
- Diuretic Action: Uva Ursi acts as a mild diuretic, increasing urine flow and promoting the elimination of toxins and excess fluids from the body. It helps flush out bacteria and other pathogens from the urinary tract, supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms against infections.
In the Garden: Uva Ursi is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. Uva Ursi plants have small, leathery leaves that are dark green in color and produce small, pink or white flowers in spring. In the garden, Uva Ursi is often used as a ground cover or edging plant in rock gardens, slopes, or dry landscapes.
Culinary Uses: Uva Ursi leaves are not commonly used for culinary purposes due to their bitter taste and medicinal properties. However, they may be used sparingly in herbal teas or infusions for their urinary tract-supportive benefits.
Precautions: Uva Ursi should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially in individuals with kidney or liver conditions, as excessive use may lead to hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity. Prolonged or high-dose use of Uva Ursi may also cause gastrointestinal upset or liver damage. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Uva Ursi due to its potential effects on uterine contractions and fetal development.
