Uva Ursi

Description

Botanical Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

About This Herb: Our Uva Ursi leaves are harvested from this low-growing evergreen shrub, then carefully dried. Also known as bearberry (the name means “bear’s grape” in Latin), this plant has been used for centuries by Native Americans and Europeans for urinary tract health. The leaves contain arbutin, which gives it its cleansing and tonifying properties.

Traditional Uses: Uva Ursi is specifically indicated for urinary tract health. It’s supportive of a healthy microbial balance in the urinary tract, used as an astringent, and traditionally used to support urinary tract comfort and health. It works best in alkaline urine, so it’s often combined with herbs that support this environment.

How to Prepare: As a tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons in cool water for 12 hours (cold infusion) or simmer gently for 15 minutes. The very astringent, bitter flavor is best combined with peppermint or licorice. For short-term periodic use, use for only (3-5 days).

Safety & Considerations: Not for use during pregnancy or nursing. Not for long-term use (maximum 1 week). May cause nausea in some individuals. Avoid with kidney conditions. May turn urine greenish-brown (harmless). Consult your healthcare provider before use.

A Smoke with History: Also known as Kinnikinnick (an Algonquian word meaning “smoking mixture”), Uva Ursi has been a staple in traditional North American ceremonial blends for centuries. Used by indigenous peoples and early frontiersmen alike, it was often the base for Kinnikinnick blends—offered in pipes to honor guests or enjoyed during quiet moments by the fire. In our Formula No. 12, it provides a grounded, earthy body that carries the other botanicals beautifully.