Herbs as
Medicine Pages

Uva Ursi Leaf

Uva Ursi historically has been used as a kidney herb. The leaves for treating bladder infections, kidney stones, incontinence and other similar ailments. It has also been used as a rinse for the mouth to treat sore gums and canker sores and to help control the sugar levels in diabetes.

The chief constituent of Uva Ursi is a glycoside called arbutin. This is what is responsible for its diuretic action. During its excretion arbutin produces an antiseptic effect on the urinary mucous membrane. Tannic acid is also contained in the leaves. This herb also helps to keep the pH balance of urine from being too acid. It actually strengthens the lining of the urinary tract and helps to relieve any inflammation in the system. It has a direct sedative effect on the bladder walls. Allantoin, also found in Uva Ursi spurs the healing of wounds. For chronic inflammation of the bladder or kidneys Uva Ursi had no equal.

Uva Ursi has been used to correct bedwetting, bladder diseases, cystitis, kidney congestion, incontinence, and infections of the kidneys and urinary tract. It is also believed to have the ability to dissolve kidney stones. Besides the kidneys and the bladder, Uva Ursi will also cleanse the spleen.

Due to the close proximity of the prostrate in men this herb has also been used for prostrate remedies. It is also good when used as a post-partum remedy to prevent infections. It can be added right to the afterbirth bath water and will help with hemorrhoids, skin splits, and inflammation.

Besides dissolving calculi in the kidneys, it has been found that Uva Ursi is additionally helpful in dissolving crystals in other bodies as well. Therefore, it has been used for arthritis and other painful joint problems.

Uva Ursi is suppose to cause the uterus to contract and is not advised to be taken by pregnant women. I do know women who have used this herb during pregnancy with no problems.

Because of the high tannin content is it also recommended that it not be taken by children under 2.
 

Bodily Influence:

Anti-lithic: This herb prevents or relieves calculi (stones)

Aromatic: This herb contains volatile, essential oils that aid digestion and relieves gas. 

Astringent: This herb has a constricting or binding effect, for example: one that checks hemorrhages or secretions by coagulation of proteins on a soft surface

Disinfectant:  This herb destroys the cause of infection

Diuretic: This herb increases the secretion and flow of urine  

Lithotriptic:  This herb dissolves urinary calculi (stones)   

Sedative (renal): This herb exerts a quieting, soothing or tranquilizing effect on the kidneys and bladder   

Stimulant (mild): This herb increases internal heat, dispels internal chill and strengthens metabolism and circulation    

Tonic: This herb restores, nourishes, and supports the entire body; it exerts a gently strengthening effect on the body    

Urinary Antiseptic: This herb combats and neutralizes pathogenic bacteria and prevents infection in the kidneys and bladder

 

We recommend Wilderness Family Naturals products because of their integrity and quality. However, other online retailers and natural food stores may also carry similar goods. Whenever, possible we have tried to give you information on how to recognize superior products. Wilderness Family Naturals products can be found at: www.wildernessfamilynaturals.com or by calling (800) 945-3801.