Western Herbalism

Uva Ursi

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Tradition of Use: Western, Native American

Mechanism of Action

Arbutin converts to hydroquinone (urinary antiseptic), astringent, diuretic

Key Conditions & Uses

UTI

cystitis

urinary tract inflammation

kidney stones

Preparation

Tea, tincture, capsule

Dosage

1.5-4g dried leaf or 2-4ml tincture up to 4x daily; alkalinize urine

Active Compounds

Arbutin, hydroquinone, tannins, allantoin

Interactions

May interact with NSAIDs, lithium

Contraindications

Pregnancy; kidney disease; liver disease; long-term use (>1 week)

Evidence Level & Clinical Notes

Evidence Level:

Moderate - effective urinary antiseptic

Clinical Notes:

Requires alkaline urine for effectiveness; short-term use only; high tannin content

Traditional Chinese Medicine Context

Natural antimicrobial for urinary tract infections

Pattern:Bladder Damp Heat with Kidney Qi Deficiency

Conditions This Helps

Interstitial Cystitis

Quick Overview

TraditionWestern Herbalism

GBS Score77/100

Key Uses4

Key Points

Evidence-based information

Traditional wisdom

Safety information

Clinical applications

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