Uva Ursi

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Uva Ursi, also known as “kinnickinnick,” is a low creeping plant with trailing stems that form a mat in dry, conifer forests. It has small, leathery, evergreen leaves, and its pink, urn-shaped flowers produce red berries. These berries are mealy and don’t have much taste, but can be made into jelly, sauce, or a drink with honey. The astringent leaves reduce pain and bleeding on a cut. Make a wash for heat rash and hives. In a sitz bath after birth, uva ursi reduces swelling, hemorrhoids, and slows bleeding. It is one of the best herbs for clearing up urinary tract infections, but should only be used short term as it is irritating to the mucus membranes of the uterine lining and bladder.

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