A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to the mountainous and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi — Uva Ursi, meaning “grapevine of the bear” in Latin (bears adore the berries) — has been used by Indigenous peoples of North America, Scandinavia, and northern Europe for centuries as a premier urinary tract herb. It was documented in 13th-century Welsh medical texts and adopted enthusiastically by European herbalists for kidney and bladder conditions throughout the medieval and early modern periods.
Uva Ursi is one of the most potent natural urinary antimicrobial herbs known, containing arbutin — a compound that converts to hydroquinone in the urinary tract, creating a powerful antiseptic action directly in the kidneys and bladder. It is most widely used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystitis, and urethritis, where it provides direct antimicrobial action alongside its significant astringent and diuretic properties that help flush pathogens from the urinary system. Modern herbalists also value uva ursi for kidney stone support, as its diuretic properties help promote healthy urinary flow and reduce mineral accumulation. Its strongly astringent tannin content also makes it useful in traditional preparations for diarrhea and gastrointestinal tightening.
For a comprehensive urinary wellness blend, pair Uva Ursi with Peppermint, Nettle Leaf, and Egyptian Chamomile — peppermint soothes urinary discomfort, nettle provides diuretic and anti-inflammatory support, and chamomile reduces bladder spasm and calms inflammation.
Uva Ursi should not be used during pregnancy or for children under 12. Long-term use (more than 2 weeks continuously) is not recommended due to hydroquinone accumulation. It works best in an alkaline urinary environment — avoid high doses of vitamin C during use. Not for use with kidney disease. As always, consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
* Premier urinary antimicrobial herb — arbutin converts to hydroquinone providing direct antiseptic action in the urinary tract
* Traditionally used for UTIs, cystitis, and urethritis across European and Indigenous North American medicine
* Diuretic properties support healthy urinary flow and help flush pathogens and mineral deposits
* Strongly astringent tannins also support digestive tightening for diarrhea relief
* Documented in Welsh medical texts since the 13th century as a kidney and bladder herb
1. Add 1–2 teaspoons of dried Uva Ursi leaf to an infuser or teapot.
2. Pour 8 oz of water heated to 200°F over the herb.
3. Steep 10–15 minutes for a strong urinary antimicrobial infusion. Strain and serve.
4. Drink 2–3 cups daily during a UTI or urinary tract support protocol, for no more than 1–2 weeks continuously.
Note: Uva Ursi works best in an alkaline urinary environment. Avoid taking high doses of vitamin C or acidic foods simultaneously.
