{"id":12549,"date":"2024-06-26T08:43:45","date_gmt":"2024-06-26T07:43:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=12549"},"modified":"2025-04-09T16:40:48","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T15:40:48","slug":"bearberry","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/bearberry\/","title":{"rendered":"Bearberry"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":12555,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"ad23a3c7-2075-404a-acfb-4a97c45b6c70","beyondwords_preview_token":"a53b5b8e-a84a-4e9d-aa83-e9ec5ebbf5a7","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[1282,1766],"conditions":[685,699,698,697],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,31,18],"western_action":[989,992,993,996,1000,1001,1003,1006,1008,1021,1023],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1492,1499,1498,1383,1487],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-12549","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-mucous-membrane-tonic","tag-urinary-antispectic","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-musculoskeletal-system","conditions-reproductive-system","conditions-urinary-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-bitter","western_action-alterative","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antirheumatic","western_action-astringent","western_action-bitter","western_action-carminatives","western_action-depurative","western_action-diuretic","western_action-stomachic","western_action-uterine-tonic","energetics_action-toning","energetics_action-astringent","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-cold","energetics_action-dry","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20240626","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Bearberry is a primary herb used to address urinary tract infections","latin_name":"Arctostaphylos uva-ursi<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Ericaceae","herb_summary":"Bearberry is excellent as a mucous membrane tonic for urinary and reproductive tissues. This herb has been researched for its unique compounds called hydroquinones, which are responsible for its urinary antiseptic actions and skin lightening properties.","key_benefits":"Urinary tract infections\r\nPoor digestion\r\nGenito-urinary dysfunction\r\nAntibacterial\r\nArthritis","how_does_it_feel":"Bearberry has a distinct aromatic taste which gives away its clear antimicrobial and anti-infective actions. It is astringent and mildly bitter, although due to these powerful aromatic qualities, for most it is pleasant and distinctly cleansing to the mouth with a soothing effect on digestion when drunk as a tea or decoction. <\/span>","hdif_image_1":12552,"hdif_image_2":12551,"hdif_image_3":12553,"hdif_video":"","sense":[17,31,18],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_12555\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Bearberry Bearberry fruit and leaves (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nBearberry has a strong reputation for the treatment of lower <\/span>urinary tract infections<\/span><\/a> (UTI). It has a short period of use of up to a week for use in home herbalism. It is indicated in mild cases of UTIs where there is a stinging or burning sensation on urination and abnormal urinary frequency where more serious conditions have been ruled out by a medical professional (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is useful for those who are prone to <\/span>urinary tract infections<\/span> as it helps to reduce inflammation, address bacterial infection and increase diuresis which are important actions for herbs used to approach the treatment of UTIs. It is an important herb for cystitis and as part of a healing strategy for recurrent UTIs (2, 3). However, it is important to note that whilst it may be able to assist in healing of the urinary tract \u2014 one must ensure that UTIs are treated appropriately particularly where the problem is recurrent or chronic. It is best to address the treatment of recurrent cystitis under the care of a medical herbalist.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is often used alongside diuretic herbs like <\/span>corn silk<\/span><\/a> and tissue restoratives such as <\/span>horsetail<\/span><\/a> or juniper berry to name a few. A herbalist will often advise a course of herbal treatment along with dietary changes and other supplements to create a lasting resolution as well as to reduce the chances of recurring infections.<\/span>\r\n\r\nBearberry may also be useful for those experiencing poor function in the <\/span>digestive system<\/span> relating to low tone of the stomach and bowels. This may present as loose stools or chronic <\/span>diarrhoea<\/span><\/a> (3). Most of the other indications of bearberryi are for conditions that should be addressed under the supervision of a herbalist.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt also has an anti-catarrhal effect on the lower <\/span>respiratory system<\/span><\/a>, which may be of use for acute cases of bronchitis to help reduce phlegmatic secretions in the lungs (3).<\/span>\r\n<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_12553\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Fresh Fresh Bearberry leaves (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nUva ursi has a complex energetic profile as an aromatic, pungent and astringent herb. It is said to be cooling via its ability to reduce toxic heat through improving the function of the kidneys and <\/span>urinary system<\/span><\/a> to detoxify the blood (4).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is used for tissue states where there is depressed or under functioning related to over relaxation of the mucous membranes that line the organs (3). Bearberry is helpful for toning the mucous membranes \u2014 with a particular affinity to the <\/span>reproductive system<\/span><\/a>, urinary tract and <\/span>digestive system<\/span><\/a> (4).<\/span>\r\n\r\nBearberry has some associations as a protective herb by the stories of its use by wild bears as a food and medicine. This herb may be one to consider to use energetically for the strengthening of boundaries.<\/span>\r\n\r\nOften herbs with this protective association are also herbs that support the boundary systems in the body. This refers to boundaries between in inner and outer worlds, i.e. the mucosa or epithelium (that lines the surfaces or cavities which performs secretory, transporting, or regulatory functions). In the case of bearberry, we see actions that support the skin, mucous membranes or endothelium. Bearberry improves the health of these frontier tissues and enables stronger boundaries. Both in terms of the physiological or emotional potential of bearberry, there are many gifts to offer those who may benefit from increased resilience to outside influences to help us repair where there may be a \u2018leaking\u2019 out of energy. These types of boundaries are often in reference to sensitive souls and empaths who tend to feel other\u2019s energy deeply (4).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"Bearberry has a long history of use as a urinary antimicrobial for the treatment of infections in the kidneys and bladder. The eclectic physicians used it for chronic and recurrent infections and irritation in the <\/span>urinary system<\/span>, enuresis, mucous or blood in the urine, chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, menorrhagia and for sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe leaves of bearberry have a traditional use among the Carrier people of North British Columbia as a poultice for wounds as well as for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) and to help with mood changes during the <\/span>menopause<\/span><\/a> (6).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"[caption id=\"attachment_12552\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Bearberry Bearberry plant (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Genito-urinary system<\/span><\/h3>\r\nThe primary uses for bearberry are for conditions in the <\/span>urinary system<\/span><\/a>. Herbalists predominantly employ this herb for its antimicrobial actions for the treatment of <\/span>urinary tract infections<\/span><\/a>. One of its primary compounds called arbutin is understood to be an important player in this herb\u2019s urinary antiseptic actions. Bearberry effectively disinfects the urinary tract (6,7). It contains high levels of tannins which contribute to its astringent effect on the urinary mucous membranes (6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nBearberry is, therefore, often incorporated into a treatment plan to help address chronic and recurring cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis pyelitis and lithuria (2,5,6). It is best applied as a decoction or infusion for conditions of the urinary system (3).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt has a neutralising effect on high acidity in the urine. It is specific for where there is profuse urination caused by diabetes mellitus. It has a tonic effect on the whole genito-urinary system that may be applied in the treatment of incontinence. It may help to address prostatitis with symptoms of involuntary seminal emissions and incontinence. It may also be of use where there is ulceration in the bladder (2,3).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIts astringent properties help to reduce excess mucous secretions caused by over-relaxation in the urinary tissues (3). Much as the older uses, bearberry is also used for leucorrhea and other excessive secretions of infectious nature in the reproductive system, such as with thrush. It helps by improving genito-urinary tone, which includes the uterine tissues. It is most specific where there is flaccidity and poor tone (3,7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThese astringent and tonic properties also make it useful for postpartum excessive flooding (3).<\/span>\r\n

Musculoskeletal system<\/span><\/h3>\r\nBearberry is used to treat inflammatory conditions in the <\/span>musculoskeletal system<\/span><\/a> such as <\/span>arthritis<\/span><\/a>. It also has an astringent and alterative effect that may be of use for the treatment of oedema as it helps to clear metabolic byproducts and toxins from the blood that can contribute to inflammation in the joints (3).<\/span>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12551\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"600\"]\"Bearberry Bearberry leaves and flowers (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Digestive system<\/span><\/h3>\r\nBearberry has an astringent effect on the gastrointestinal system. It can be used for chronic diarrhoea caused by poor tone and flaccidity of the digestive mucous membranes (8).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt may be used for indigestion, nausea, excess phlegmatic secretions in the digestive tract and for sluggish digestion caused by slow emptying of the stomach. It is also sometimes used for ulcerations in the bowels.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is also a supportive medicine where there is digestive weakness relating to diabetes mellitus (3). Its antimicrobial effects are specific for gastric <\/span>Helicobacter pylori<\/span><\/i> infections (4).<\/span>\r\n

Reproductive system<\/span><\/h3>\r\nBearberry has a tonic effect on the <\/span>reproductive system<\/span><\/a> for both men and women. It has been used where there is a lax state in the uterus for excessive bleeding and menorrhagia. It may also be useful for dysmenorrhea that relates to poor tone in the uterine tissue. For the same reasons it can be a useful tonic for uterine prolapse (4).<\/span>\r\n

Skin<\/span><\/h3>\r\nBearberry is sometimes used in cosmetic products for skin hyper-pigmentation. It contains hydroquinones, one such is arbutin, which has been found to be a powerful skin lightener. Many skin lightening products contain an extract of arbutin derived from plants such as bearberry. Topical application of skin products containing bearberry may be helpful for reducing the appearance of age spots, as well as hormonal skin issues such as melasma and vitiligo. It is important to note that larger and stronger doses as well as longer-term use may be associated with rebound hyper-pigmentation and skin irritation so it is important to follow product guidelines or work alongside a professional herbalist for the safest treatment (4).<\/span>","research":"There are currently a very limited amount of high quality clinical trials for bearberry. However, a number of in vitro and in vivo studies have examined the effects of bearberry extracts and or arbutin has shown positive antibacterial activities against <\/span>Helicobacter pylori<\/span><\/i> strains as well as enterobacter, klebsiella, and shigella species. <\/span>Bacillus subtilis<\/span><\/i>, <\/span>Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella thyphimurium Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli<\/span><\/i> and <\/span>Mycoplasma homonis<\/span><\/i> were the most sensitive to the antibacterial effects of bearberry and arbutin extracts (6).<\/span>","did_you_know":"Bearberry\u2019s species\u00a0 name derives from the Latin words <\/span>uva<\/span><\/i> meaning grape and <\/span>ursus<\/span><\/i> meaning bear thus bear\u2019s grape. Its name references the common habit of bears to consume its fruits (9).<\/span>\r\n\r\nBearberry has traditional use as a smoke medicine among many Indigenous tribes. It was often blended with other aromatic herbs and made into a smoke blend which was called Kinnickinik (4).<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":12559},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Bearberry is a creeping, slow-growing, prostrate, evergreen shrub. It typically grows up to 6\u201312 feet tall. Its flexible branches spread to 3\u20136 feet wide or more. Branchlets mature to a reddish brown colour with peeling bark that has a papery texture on older twigs. The leaves are alternate, entire, short-stalked, leathery, rounded-at-the-tip. They may appear obovate to spatulate and are dark green, evergreen and shiny above but paler underneath (each approximately 1 1\/4 inches long).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLeaves turn light brown in winter before becoming green again in spring.\u00a0 The small flowers appear in small terminal clusters in April to May. They are drooping, urn-shaped and white-to-pink in colour. The berry-like round fruits (drupes) ripen in August\u2013September. Each drupe (1\/2\u201d long) contains five nutlets (seeds). Drupes are green in summer ripening to a rich red in autumn. They may remain on the plants throughout winter (9).<\/span>","common_names":"