GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
A small evergreen shrub found in the northern
U.S. and Europe, Uva ursi’s most active component is arbutin, which is found in its leaves
and was at one time marketed as a urinary antiseptic and
diuretic. Historically, Uva ursi has been used to treat
bladder and kidney infections, kidney stones, and
bronchitis. When given alone, arbutin is broken down by intestinal bacteria almost completely before
it can have any effect. Other components in the Uva ursi
plant, however, prevent this degradation.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
The active ingredient in Uva ursi is the glycoside
arbutin, which is present in fairly high amounts (up to 10%). Arbutin has been shown to
kill bacteria, such as Escherichia coli and
Staphylococcus aureus in the urine, thus it may be of use in
treating urinary tract infections. Once in the body arbutin
is converted into a molecule called hydroquinone
&emdash; a powerful anti-microbial agent. Arbutin has also been shown to increase the
antiinflammatory action of synthetic
cortisone.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
3 grams of Uva ursi in 150 ml of water as an
infusion to be taken three to four times daily. 250-500 mg three times per day of the herbal extract
in capsules or tablets (containing 20% arbutin) can also be
taken. Uva ursi should not be used for more than fourteen
days.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Long-term (more than 2-3 weeks) use of Uva
ursi is not recommended. Acidic agents such as cranberry juice, prune juice, and vitamin C (more
than 500mg per day) should be avoided when taking Uva
ursi. Pregnant and lactating women should not take Uva Ursi.
