Evidence supporting the use of: Bearberry
For the health condition: Urination (burning or painful)

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

Synopsis

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

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) has been traditionally used in European and Native American herbal medicine to treat urinary tract discomfort, including burning or painful urination. The primary active compound, arbutin, is metabolized in the body to hydroquinone, which exhibits antimicrobial activity in the urinary tract, especially in alkaline urine. Several clinical studies and pharmacological evaluations have investigated bearberry's use in urinary tract infections (UTIs) and related symptoms. Some small clinical trials and observational studies suggest that bearberry preparations may reduce symptoms of mild urinary tract inflammation and discomfort, including burning during urination, particularly when used at the onset of symptoms.

However, the quality of the evidence is limited. Most studies are either small, poorly controlled, or use combination herbal products. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is a plausible mechanism for bearberry's action and some supportive clinical data, robust, high-quality randomized controlled trials are lacking. As a result, bearberry is sometimes recommended as a supportive measure for mild urinary tract symptoms, but it is not considered a first-line treatment. Safety concerns also exist with long-term or high-dose use due to the potential toxicity of hydroquinone. In summary, bearberry's use for burning or painful urination is supported by both traditional use and modest scientific evidence, but further research is needed to fully validate its efficacy and safety.

More about bearberry
More about Urination (burning or painful)