Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageTaking Too MuchInteractionsStoring ItFrequently Asked QuestionsSources & What to Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Taking Too Much
Interactions
Storing It
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & What to Look For
Uva ursiis an evergreen plant that produces red berries and is said to help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections, though research is limited. It’s also been used to treat dark skin patches, though little research supports this treatment. The plant, whose scientific name isArctostaphylos uva-ursi, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Uva ursi is often referred to as bearberry because bears seem to enjoy eating its red berries. The Latin term “uva ursi” translates to “bear’s grapes.”
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Uses of Uva Ursi
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s): Leaves of the uva ursi plantAlternate name(s): Bearberry, bears grape, foxberry, crowberry, kinnikinnickSuggested dose: No standard recommended doseSafety considerations:Avoid if pregnant and breastfeeding; avoid in children; discuss with healthcare provider prior to use
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s): Leaves of the uva ursi plantAlternate name(s): Bearberry, bears grape, foxberry, crowberry, kinnikinnickSuggested dose: No standard recommended doseSafety considerations:Avoid if pregnant and breastfeeding; avoid in children; discuss with healthcare provider prior to use
Herbal supplements from the leaves of uva ursi have been mostly promoted for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections. However, there is not enough research to support their use.
A small clinical trial in Germany found that using uva ursi initially for UTI reduced the use of antibiotics. However, it also led to more symptoms and safety concerns when compared to fosfomycin.Another study could not prove that using uva ursi reduced the severity of symptoms.
Uva ursi has also been used topically (applied to the surface of the skin) because it chemically produceshydroquinone, which is a substance used in skin-lightening creams. Hydroquinone is prescribed for the treatment ofdark skin patchesthat develop due to skin damage.However, there is very little research to support the efficacy of its use for this purpose.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
What Are the Side Effects of Uva Ursi?
Potential side effects you may experience from short-term use are:
Theoretically, high amounts of hydroquinone (from taking uva ursi) in the body can lead to serious, life-threatening complications, including:
Uva ursi should be avoided if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is not enough safety data on its use.It is also not recommended for children.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Dosage: How Much Uva Ursi Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
There is no standard recommended dose for uva ursi supplementation.
Speaking with your healthcare provider regarding benefits, risks, and dose of supplements is always recommended.
Due to the potential for toxicity, many experts don’t recommend taking the herb for more than one week. Some guidelines suggest taking uva ursi less than five times a year and for not more than five days each time.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Uva Ursi?
Taking more than the recommended dose is more likely to result in side effects.
There is concern that taking too much uva ursi could lead to liver damage when used in high doses. There also may be an increased risk of cancer when used over the long term.
This herb can alter the absorption or effects of certain drugs and nutrients and should not be used if you take:
How to Store Uva Ursi
Frequently Asked QuestionsThere is no data to show that uva ursi can prevent a UTI. Preliminary data looked at whether uva ursi could be an alternative to antibiotics for treatment. The data from the available research do not support the use of uva ursi over antibiotics.There are several herbal combinations for bladder infections. Some preliminary studies show that taking uva ursi with dandelion tea may help prevent UTIs. Still, there’s not enough clinical research to support these claims.
There is no data to show that uva ursi can prevent a UTI. Preliminary data looked at whether uva ursi could be an alternative to antibiotics for treatment. The data from the available research do not support the use of uva ursi over antibiotics.
There are several herbal combinations for bladder infections. Some preliminary studies show that taking uva ursi with dandelion tea may help prevent UTIs. Still, there’s not enough clinical research to support these claims.
Sources of Uva Ursi & What to Look For
Always check that your supplements are independently tested to ensure that they contain the ingredients listed on the label and are free of contaminants.
Summary
Uva ursi is an herbal supplement that may be marketed to treat urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence and to lighten the skin. There is limited research to support these uses.
Uva ursi can potentially have dangerous side effects and, therefore, should only be taken for a short time. Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
14 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Das S.Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.Futur J Pharm Sci. 2020;6(1):64. doi:10.1186/s43094-020-00086-2Gágyor I, Hummers E, Schmiemann G, et al.Herbal treatment with uva ursi extract versus fosfomycin in women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection in primary care: a randomized controlled trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2021;27(10):1441-1447. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2021.05.032Moore M, Trill J, Simpson C, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women (ATAFUTI): a factorial randomized trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2019;25(8):973-980. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2019.01.011Draelos ZD, Deliencourt‐Godefroy G, Lopes L.An effective hydroquinone alternative for topical skin lightening.J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(12):3258-3261. doi:10.1111/jocd.13771U.S. National Library of Medicine.LiverTox: Clinical and research information on drug-induced liver injury. Uva Ursi.National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Hydroquinone.de Arriba SG, Naser B, Nolte K-U. RiskAssessment of free hydroquinone derived from arctostaphylos uva-ursi folium herbal preparations.International Journal of Toxicology. 2013;32(6):442-453. doi:10.1177/1091581813507721U.S. National Library of Medicine Drugs and Lactation Database.Uva Ursi.Locke AB.Urinary tract infection(Uti). In:Integrative Medicine. Elsevier; 2018:211-217.e2. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-35868-2.00022-0Ericaceae. In:Meyler’s Side Effects of Drugs. Elsevier; 2016:93-96. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-53717-1.00697-1Tungland B.Microbiota and the urogenital tract, pathogenesis, and therapies. In:Human Microbiota in Health and Disease. Elsevier; 2018:605-647. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-814649-1.00014-4Trill J, Simpson C, Webley F, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments of adult female urinary tract infection (ATAFUTI): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.Trials. 2017;18(1):421. doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2145-7Sugier P, Sęczyk Ł, Sugier D, et al.Chemical characteristics and antioxidant activity ofArctostaphylos uva-ursiL. Spreng. at the southern border of the geographical range of the species in Europe.Molecules. 2021;26(24):7692. doi:10.3390/molecules26247692Chauhan B, Yu C, Krantis A, et al.In vitro activity of uva-ursi against cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and P-glycoprotein.Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(11):1099-1107. doi:10.1139/Y07-106Additional ReadingGeetha RV, Anitha R, Lakshmi T.Nature’s weapon against urinary tract Infections.International Journal of Drug Development & Research.2011;3(3):85-100.
14 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Das S.Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.Futur J Pharm Sci. 2020;6(1):64. doi:10.1186/s43094-020-00086-2Gágyor I, Hummers E, Schmiemann G, et al.Herbal treatment with uva ursi extract versus fosfomycin in women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection in primary care: a randomized controlled trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2021;27(10):1441-1447. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2021.05.032Moore M, Trill J, Simpson C, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women (ATAFUTI): a factorial randomized trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2019;25(8):973-980. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2019.01.011Draelos ZD, Deliencourt‐Godefroy G, Lopes L.An effective hydroquinone alternative for topical skin lightening.J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(12):3258-3261. doi:10.1111/jocd.13771U.S. National Library of Medicine.LiverTox: Clinical and research information on drug-induced liver injury. Uva Ursi.National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Hydroquinone.de Arriba SG, Naser B, Nolte K-U. RiskAssessment of free hydroquinone derived from arctostaphylos uva-ursi folium herbal preparations.International Journal of Toxicology. 2013;32(6):442-453. doi:10.1177/1091581813507721U.S. National Library of Medicine Drugs and Lactation Database.Uva Ursi.Locke AB.Urinary tract infection(Uti). In:Integrative Medicine. Elsevier; 2018:211-217.e2. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-35868-2.00022-0Ericaceae. In:Meyler’s Side Effects of Drugs. Elsevier; 2016:93-96. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-53717-1.00697-1Tungland B.Microbiota and the urogenital tract, pathogenesis, and therapies. In:Human Microbiota in Health and Disease. Elsevier; 2018:605-647. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-814649-1.00014-4Trill J, Simpson C, Webley F, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments of adult female urinary tract infection (ATAFUTI): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.Trials. 2017;18(1):421. doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2145-7Sugier P, Sęczyk Ł, Sugier D, et al.Chemical characteristics and antioxidant activity ofArctostaphylos uva-ursiL. Spreng. at the southern border of the geographical range of the species in Europe.Molecules. 2021;26(24):7692. doi:10.3390/molecules26247692Chauhan B, Yu C, Krantis A, et al.In vitro activity of uva-ursi against cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and P-glycoprotein.Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(11):1099-1107. doi:10.1139/Y07-106Additional ReadingGeetha RV, Anitha R, Lakshmi T.Nature’s weapon against urinary tract Infections.International Journal of Drug Development & Research.2011;3(3):85-100.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Das S.Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.Futur J Pharm Sci. 2020;6(1):64. doi:10.1186/s43094-020-00086-2Gágyor I, Hummers E, Schmiemann G, et al.Herbal treatment with uva ursi extract versus fosfomycin in women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection in primary care: a randomized controlled trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2021;27(10):1441-1447. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2021.05.032Moore M, Trill J, Simpson C, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women (ATAFUTI): a factorial randomized trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2019;25(8):973-980. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2019.01.011Draelos ZD, Deliencourt‐Godefroy G, Lopes L.An effective hydroquinone alternative for topical skin lightening.J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(12):3258-3261. doi:10.1111/jocd.13771U.S. National Library of Medicine.LiverTox: Clinical and research information on drug-induced liver injury. Uva Ursi.National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Hydroquinone.de Arriba SG, Naser B, Nolte K-U. RiskAssessment of free hydroquinone derived from arctostaphylos uva-ursi folium herbal preparations.International Journal of Toxicology. 2013;32(6):442-453. doi:10.1177/1091581813507721U.S. National Library of Medicine Drugs and Lactation Database.Uva Ursi.Locke AB.Urinary tract infection(Uti). In:Integrative Medicine. Elsevier; 2018:211-217.e2. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-35868-2.00022-0Ericaceae. In:Meyler’s Side Effects of Drugs. Elsevier; 2016:93-96. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-53717-1.00697-1Tungland B.Microbiota and the urogenital tract, pathogenesis, and therapies. In:Human Microbiota in Health and Disease. Elsevier; 2018:605-647. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-814649-1.00014-4Trill J, Simpson C, Webley F, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments of adult female urinary tract infection (ATAFUTI): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.Trials. 2017;18(1):421. doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2145-7Sugier P, Sęczyk Ł, Sugier D, et al.Chemical characteristics and antioxidant activity ofArctostaphylos uva-ursiL. Spreng. at the southern border of the geographical range of the species in Europe.Molecules. 2021;26(24):7692. doi:10.3390/molecules26247692Chauhan B, Yu C, Krantis A, et al.In vitro activity of uva-ursi against cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and P-glycoprotein.Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(11):1099-1107. doi:10.1139/Y07-106
Das S.Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.Futur J Pharm Sci. 2020;6(1):64. doi:10.1186/s43094-020-00086-2
Gágyor I, Hummers E, Schmiemann G, et al.Herbal treatment with uva ursi extract versus fosfomycin in women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection in primary care: a randomized controlled trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2021;27(10):1441-1447. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2021.05.032
Moore M, Trill J, Simpson C, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women (ATAFUTI): a factorial randomized trial.Clin Microbiol Infect. 2019;25(8):973-980. doi:10.1016/j.cmi.2019.01.011
Draelos ZD, Deliencourt‐Godefroy G, Lopes L.An effective hydroquinone alternative for topical skin lightening.J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(12):3258-3261. doi:10.1111/jocd.13771
U.S. National Library of Medicine.LiverTox: Clinical and research information on drug-induced liver injury. Uva Ursi.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Hydroquinone.
de Arriba SG, Naser B, Nolte K-U. RiskAssessment of free hydroquinone derived from arctostaphylos uva-ursi folium herbal preparations.International Journal of Toxicology. 2013;32(6):442-453. doi:10.1177/1091581813507721
U.S. National Library of Medicine Drugs and Lactation Database.Uva Ursi.
Locke AB.Urinary tract infection(Uti). In:Integrative Medicine. Elsevier; 2018:211-217.e2. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-35868-2.00022-0
Ericaceae. In:Meyler’s Side Effects of Drugs. Elsevier; 2016:93-96. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-53717-1.00697-1
Tungland B.Microbiota and the urogenital tract, pathogenesis, and therapies. In:Human Microbiota in Health and Disease. Elsevier; 2018:605-647. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-814649-1.00014-4
Trill J, Simpson C, Webley F, et al.Uva-ursi extract and ibuprofen as alternative treatments of adult female urinary tract infection (ATAFUTI): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.Trials. 2017;18(1):421. doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2145-7
Sugier P, Sęczyk Ł, Sugier D, et al.Chemical characteristics and antioxidant activity ofArctostaphylos uva-ursiL. Spreng. at the southern border of the geographical range of the species in Europe.Molecules. 2021;26(24):7692. doi:10.3390/molecules26247692
Chauhan B, Yu C, Krantis A, et al.In vitro activity of uva-ursi against cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and P-glycoprotein.Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(11):1099-1107. doi:10.1139/Y07-106
Geetha RV, Anitha R, Lakshmi T.Nature’s weapon against urinary tract Infections.International Journal of Drug Development & Research.2011;3(3):85-100.
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