Evidence supporting the use of: Uva Ursi
For the body system: Urinary System
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), also known as bearberry, has a long history of traditional use for supporting urinary tract health, particularly in Europe and North America. The leaves of the plant contain compounds such as arbutin, which is converted in the body to hydroquinone, a substance with antimicrobial properties. Historically, Uva Ursi has been used as a folk remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystitis, and kidney and bladder stones. It was included in the official pharmacopeias of several countries during the 19th and early 20th centuries for these indications.
While there is a substantial body of traditional use, modern scientific evidence supporting Uva Ursi’s efficacy is mixed and generally limited. Some in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated antimicrobial effects against common urinary pathogens, but high-quality human clinical trials are scarce. The European Medicines Agency recognizes its traditional use for mild urinary complaints but notes the lack of robust clinical data. Safety concerns also exist: hydroquinone, the active metabolite, can be toxic at high doses or with prolonged use. Due to these safety concerns and the limited evidence base, most health authorities recommend that use be reserved for short-term or traditional applications and not as a substitute for appropriate medical treatment of urinary tract infections.
In summary, the use of Uva Ursi for urinary system support is supported primarily by a long history of traditional use, with only modest scientific validation and notable safety considerations.
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