Uva Ursi

Identity

Common Name

Uva Ursi

Scientific Name

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Botanical Family

Ericaceae

Native Region

Northern Hemisphere temperate and arctic regions

Cultivation Regions

Northern Hemisphere (circumboreal)

Plant Parts Used

Leaves

Synonyms

Bearberry, Kinnikinnick, Upland Cranberry

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A low trailing evergreen groundcover with small glossy dark green spoon-shaped leathery leaves, small pink-white bell-shaped flowers, and clusters of bright red berries (bearberries).

Historical Background

Uva ursi ('bear grape') has been used by Indigenous North American and European peoples for centuries as a urinary-tract comfort herb. Bears were said to eat the berries after winter hibernation, lending it the name 'bearberry.' The leaves are infused or decocted for short-term use.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous North American and European traditions as a urinary tract herb for centuries.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Astringent, earthy, green, mildly bitter

Tea Information

Research Summary

Uva ursi has a tradition as a short-term urinary-tract comfort herb (arbutin). Clinical evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for UTI; do not use long-term. Any urinary symptoms warrant professional evaluation to rule out infection.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources