Uva Ursi

Uva ursi has been used medicinally since the 2nd century as a natural remedy for urinary tract infections. Today, many medicines still harness the power of uva ursi to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) and cystitis (bladder inflammation). 

Why You Might Find it Helpful

Biologically, uva ursi has potent chemicals to fight off infections. For instance, the plant contains tannins that cause the mucous membranes in your body to naturally shrink and tighten. Due to these astringent effects, the body is better able to fight off infection and reduce inflammation. 

Motherlove uses this particular herb for our postpartum products, such as our Sitz Bath Spray, because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to the natural chemicals (glycosides, arbutin, hydroquinone, and tannins) in uva ursi, infections may be treated, and swelling and bleeding may be reduced.

What It Looks Like

Sometimes called “bearberry,” uva ursi has been the preferred snack of hungry bears in the forests of North America for centuries. Though you can eat the berries of the plant, they are mealy and don’t have much taste. Uva ursi is primarily harvested for its small, leathery, evergreen leaves. You will typically be able to identify this plant by either its leaves or its pink, urn-shaped flowers.

Things to Know

Check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Though few negative reactions to uva ursi have occurred, allergic reactions can happen.