Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
The bearberry plant is a small shrub that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Bearberry leaves have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. They are a good source of antioxidants, and they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. They also help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) and inflammation; reduces diarrhoea; can help to reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood – thus reduce the pain of gout; improves skin health; and eye health.
Alternative Names
Uva-ursi | Bearberry holly | Kinnikinnik | Mountain cranberry | Bearberry wintergreen | Boxberry | Foxberry
Benefits
Bearberry is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Bearberry can help to kill bacteria that cause UTIs and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.
- Diarrhoea: Bearberry can help to bind to water in the intestines and make the stool more solid.
- Gout: Bearberry can help to reduce the levels of uric acid in the blood, which can help to prevent gout attacks.
- Skin health: Bearberry can help to improve skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Eye health: Bearberry can help to improve eye health by protecting the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
Botanical Description
Bearberry is a member of the Ericaceae family native to North America, Europe, and Asia, which also includes blueberries, cranberries, and rhododendrons.
The plants are typically 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) tall and have a creeping, mat-like growth habit. Leaves are small, oval, and leathery, with a smooth, shiny surface. The flowers are white or pink and are borne in small clusters in the spring. The fruit is a red berry that ripens in the Autumn.
Active Ingredients
- Arbutin: a compound that is converted to hydroquinone in the body. Hydroquinone is a natural skin lightener that can be used to treat hyperpigmentation.
- Proanthocyanidins: a type of antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage.
- Ursolic acid: a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Methylarbutin: is a compound that is similar to arbutin. It has been shown to have antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
- Tannins: a type of compound that can help to bind to water in the intestines and make the stool more solid. They also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Flavonoids: a type of antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage. They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Vitamins: Bearberry contains a number of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. These vitamins are essential for a healthy immune system and overall health.
- Minerals: Bearberry contains a number of minerals, including calcium, iron, and manganese. These minerals are essential for a healthy body and mind.
Harvesting
Bearberry leaves can be harvested throughout the year, whereas the berries are only ripe in the Autumn. Be sure to identify the plant correctly, as bearberry can be easily confused with other plants.
Mythology/Folklore
Bearberry is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, and it is also associated with a number of myths and legends.
One of the most common myths about bearberry is that it was used by bears to treat urinary tract infections. According to the myth, bears would eat the leaves of the plant to relieve their discomfort. This myth is likely based on the fact that bearberry is a natural diuretic, and it can help to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
Bearberry was also used by Native Americans to create a natural dye. The berries of the plant can be used to create a yellow dye, and the leaves can be used to create a red dye. These dyes were used to make clothing, baskets, and other objects.
Bearberry is also associated with a number of other myths and legends. In some cultures, it is believed that the plant can protect against evil spirits. In others, it is believed that the plant can bring good luck.
Use
To make bearberry leaf tea, simply add one teaspoon of dried bearberry leaves to a cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain and drink. Bearberry leaf tea can be consumed up to three times per day.
It is important to note that bearberry leaf tea can be toxic in large doses. It is important to follow the directions on the label or to talk to your doctor before using bearberry leaf tea.
Possible Side Effects
Bearberry tea is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, which can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Changes in the menstrual cycle
- Decreased libido
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Allergic reactions
If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to stop drinking bearberry tea – it can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking bearberry tea if you are taking any medications.
