Bearberry Leaf, Wild, Hand Picked
Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Also known as Kinnikinnick and wild cranberry
Information: This Bearberry was hand picked in the wilds of Montana, on the eastern slope of the continental divide. Special care was taken to ensure the harvest only the best Bearberry , less than 5% was harvested out of any 10 meter square area. This ensures that a healthy crop of Wild Bearberry will be provided for you.
History: The Bearberry plant is a green leafed shrub with bright red berries that grows in the cooler environments of Britain, North America, Europe, and Asia. Although the berries are edible, it is the leaf of the Bearberry that is valued as a medicinal herb. Bearberry Leaf is used extensively by many Native American tribes, such as the Cheyenne who would brew the leaves into a tea.
Modern Uses: The Commission E approved the use of uva ursi for inflammatory disorders of the efferent urinary tract.
The British Herbal Compendium lists its use for mild infections of the urinary tract. The French marketing authorization for phytomedicines allows its use to promote the renal elimination of water and as an adjuvant to diuresis treatments in benign urinary tract infections. The German Standard License for uva ursi medicinal tea indicates its use as support in the therapy of catarrhs of the bladder and kidney. ESCOP lists uva ursi for uncomplicated infections of the lower urinary tract, such as cystitis.
Active Ingredients: Glycosides including arbutin and ericolin, Tannins, flavonoids, resin
Actions: Tonic, anti-microbial, anti-lithic, anti-catarrhal, demulcent, astringent, diuretic
Complementary Herbs: Couchgrass, Yarrow
Warning: This dried herb should not be used if you are pregnant, irritated digestive conditions or if acidic urine is present.