Evidence supporting the use of: Bearberry
For the body system: Bladder

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) has a long history of traditional use for supporting urinary and bladder health. It has been used in European folk medicine for centuries as a herbal remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and inflammation of the bladder (cystitis). The primary active compound, arbutin, is hydrolyzed in the body to hydroquinone, which is thought to exert antimicrobial effects in the urinary tract. Traditional herbal texts and pharmacopeias, such as the German Commission E, include bearberry as a remedy for uncomplicated urinary tract conditions.

Scientific evidence supporting bearberry's efficacy for bladder health is limited and not robust. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated antimicrobial activity of bearberry extracts against common urinary pathogens, and a small number of clinical studies suggest modest benefit in preventing recurrent UTIs, particularly when used in combination with other herbs. However, systematic reviews and larger randomized controlled trials are lacking, and concerns remain about the safety of long-term use due to the potential toxicity of hydroquinone metabolites. Therefore, while there is a strong traditional basis for bearberry’s use in supporting the bladder, scientific validation is modest and further research is needed.

More about bearberry
More about Bladder

Other body systems supported by bearberry

Bladder
Kidneys
Urinary System