Uva Ursi

Species name: Ericaceae.

Also known as: Bear berry, mountain cranberry, arbutus, bearberry, chipmunks apples, mountain box

Uva Ursi might have a funny name but there is nothing funny about what this great herb can do for people. This herb grows in open areas and it normally appears in the spring. To work properly this herb requires alkaline urine. What this means is that you have to reframe from eating acidity foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes or any other foods that contain acid when using Uva Ursi if you want to have the best results. This sacrifice in diet is well worth it to get the benefits from the herb.

What is Uva Ursi?: Uva Ursi grows in places such as North America, Siberia, Himalayas and Europe. It grows best in rich soils and is sometimes described as an evergreen shrub. Many people enjoy using this herb as an ornament because it grows like a vine that has a carpet appearance. It can grow to decorate walls or embankments. It has an assortment of color beginning with a light pink flower that’s blooms in the late spring. The flowers are small round clusters that are beautifully accented by the red tones that the leaves acquire in the autumn. It also has bright red berries to add to the color.

Home Remedies using Uva Ursi:

Benefits of Uva Ursi:

There are many great benefits to using the herb, Uva Ursi. It has been known to help people with kidney stones and even uncomfortable urinary tract infections. One great benefit of this herb is that it can be used as food for survival. Although the berries may taste a little plain it will help to quench your thirst and encourage the flow of saliva. When drank as a tonic it is said that Uva Ursi is good for a person that has a weak liver, kidney or pancreas. It is also believed to help fight infection and relieve many irritations of the body and skin.

Uses of Uva Ursi:

  • Kidney stones
  • Urinary track infection
  • Fights infection and relieves irritations
  • Internal uses
  • Externally as an astringent
  • Tea
  • Cider
  • Berries can be cooked with other food

Side Effects of Uva Ursi:

Uva Ursi does have some side effects that may include irritability, an increased heart rate, insomnia and possible vomiting. It is advised that you do not take this herb more than five times a year and no longer than one to two weeks at a time.