Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), also known as bearberry, has benefits for the body, but also contraindications that it is necessary to know before being consumed. Let’s get to know these below:
This plant belongs to the large family Ericaceae, which encompasses about 3,500 species in 125 genera of small trees, shrubs, and woody vines widely distributed throughout the world.
The genus Arctostaphylos comprises 50 species, many of which are commonly confused with uva ursi. These include alupia alpina (A. alpina), manzanita de Santa Cruz (A. andersonii) and Mt. Devil manzanita (A. auriculata).
Several cultivars of uva ursi have been developed, primarily for ornamental purposes, such as ‘Massachusetts’.
Uva ursi is a small evergreen shrub with glossy, green leaves. The branches grow flat along the ground and are reddish-brown in color. The uva ursi flower is pink and bell-shaped, its appearance followed by bright red berries. One plant can cover 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) of ground.
Historic information The history of uva ursi is primarily medicinal; the herb has little nutritional value and absolutely no culinary value. Various historical peoples have used uva ursi since the 2nd century, especially in urinary and bladder infections. Documents from Wales dating back to the 13th century have been found that mention the use of uva ursi as a medicinal agent. For Native Americans, it was also a popular herb to smoke with tobacco.
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Uva Ursi Benefits to health
To date, little scientific research has been carried out on uva ursi. Its medicinal uses are mostly based on anecdotal evidence and years of tradition rather than scientific proof:
Relieve bladder and kidney infections. Uva ursi has traditionally been used almost exclusively to support urinary health.
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How does it work
Arbutin is the main active compound found in uva ursi, and is considered responsible for most of the herb’s antimicrobial, astringent, and disinfectant properties. In vitro studies of human melanocytic cells (located just under the skin) exposed to arbutin reported a decrease in tyrosinase activity: tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for controlling the rate of melanin. There was little evidence of toxicity.
Some in vitro studies have shown that arbutin has mild to moderate action against fungal overgrowth of Candida albicans, as well as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli bacteria.
Herbs that are commonly used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections are bilberry, echinacea, and bilberry.
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Contraindications and side effects of Uva Ursi
General reported side effects include mild nausea, vomiting, irritability, and insomnia.
The liver damaging effects of uva ursi can be attributed to hydroquinone (HQ), a compound that arbutin converts inside the body. Uva ursi has also been associated with albuminuria, hematuria, and urinary casts.
Pregnant or lactating women, as well as people with high blood pressure, Crohn’s disease, kidney disease, or liver disease should avoid taking uva ursi altogether.
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How to grow uva ursi
Uva ursi is difficult to grow as a garden plant, as it does not grow well after being transplanted from the wild, although propagation by cuttings seems to be more successful.
growth guidelines
Uva ursi grows in moist conditions, preferably under neutral to slightly acidic soil. The best soils for uva ursi are well-drained, sandy or sandy, and it likes exposed open sites.
Once established, this plant is extremely drought resistant and should be placed in full sun, although it can tolerate light shade as well.
Uva ursi is generally considered tolerant of most pests and diseases, and is rarely attacked by deer or birds, though it is susceptible to root rot and mildew, especially in southern areas.
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