Synopsis

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

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) has a longstanding history in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs), and there is some scientific evidence supporting its use, though it is limited and not definitive. The primary active compound in bearberry leaves is arbutin, which is metabolized in the body to hydroquinone—a substance with antimicrobial properties. Early laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that extracts of bearberry can inhibit the growth of several bacteria commonly associated with UTIs, such as Escherichia coli.

Clinical evidence in humans, however, is sparse and of moderate quality. A small number of randomized controlled trials have been conducted, some of which suggest a modest benefit in reducing the recurrence of UTIs, particularly in women. For example, a double-blind study found that women taking bearberry extract had fewer recurrences of UTIs compared to placebo over a one-year period. Nonetheless, the sample sizes were small, and methodological limitations reduce the certainty of these findings.

Bearberry is generally considered safe for short-term use, but long-term or excessive use is discouraged due to potential toxicity from hydroquinone. Overall, while there is a biological rationale and some preliminary clinical evidence supporting bearberry’s utility for UTIs, the quality and quantity of evidence are not strong enough to make it a first-line treatment. Most major guidelines do not currently recommend it as a standard therapy, but it remains a popular complementary approach.

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More about Urinary Tract Infections

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Products containing bearberry

Vitabase Active Woman's Multi
Designs For Health GI Microb-X™
Designs For Health GI Microb-X™
Vitabase Prostate Complex (Formerly Prostate Complete)
Vitabase Super Fat Burner
Designs For Health UT Synergy™