What's it all about?

Bearberry (uva-ursi) is also known as "bearberry" because of its fruit: small red berries similar to cranberries, particularly appreciated by bears.

Properties

Bearberry is a major plant for urinary tract infections, used to disinfect the urinary tract in cases of :

• acute or chronic cystitis,
• urethritis,
• nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) or pyelitis,
• symptoms of incontinence or urinary retention,
• treat and prevent renal lithiasis (urinary calculi) and renal colic,
• alleviate burning sensations during urination.

The plant was already known to North American Indians for its diuretic, astringent and antiseptic properties. Even today, the umbrella association of national phytotherapy societies (ESCOP) and the well-known Commission E of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) in Germany classify bearberry as an effective remedy for uncomplicated infectious diseases of the urinary tract. While the fruits of this blueberry-like shrub are edible, it's the leaves that are used in herbal medicine (or pharmacy).

Recommended dosage

Bearberry is generally taken at the first signs of urinary tract infection. In women, tingling, discomfort or burning during urination are the first signs.

Curative: 2 to 3 capsules 3 times a day, before or between meals. At this dosage, do not exceed 15 days.

Preventive: 1 to 2 capsules a day between meals. 

Note: To be fully effective, bearberry must be taken when urine is alkaline. For this reason, do not combine it with fruit juices or acidic products (vitamin C). Take capsules with water.

Contraindications

Not suitable for children, pregnant and breast-feeding women.