Uva ursi - Nature Cures®

Also known as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Berberis aristata, Berberidaceae, Indian bearberry, Indian barberry, daruharidra ordaruhaldi.

Medicinal use of the uva ursi berries and root dates back more than 2500 years. It has been used in Indian medicine to treat diarrhoea, reduce fever, improve appetite, relieve upset stomach and promote vigour as well as a sense of wellbeing.

Today, it is widely used for medicinal purposes in Iran, including for biliary disorders, such as gallbladder disease and heartburn. It treats liver and gallbladder inflammation and jaundice and helps the bile to flow freely. It is also a very mild laxative and removes toxins from the bowels and it can also help treat an enlarged spleen.

Uva ursi and goldenseal are often used for similar medicinal purposes because both herbs contain the chemical berberine. The aqueous extract of uva ursi has beneficial effects on both the cardiovascular and neural system. As such, it may be useful in the treatment of hypertension, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), and some neuronal disorders, such as epilepsy and convulsions.

Recent studies suggest that uva ursi also has antioxidant properties. It also strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water and can help to balance blood sugar levels.

How to use uva ursi

Make a tea with two to four grams of dried root steeped or one to two teaspoons of whole or crushed berries steeped in 150 ml of boiling water for 10 – 15 minutes then drink three times daily.

Use a decoction of the uva ursi root to gargle and relieve minor throat irritations.

Apply and rub uva ursi juice (the juice from the fruit) on the gums to treat pyorrhoea.

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