Also known as bearberry, uva ursi is a low-lying shrub whose berries have been used by Chinese herbalists for thousands of years. Available in capsules and liquid extracts, uva ursi supplements:
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Contains naturally-occurring tannins, flavonoids, and the glycoside arbutin.
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Has been traditionally used to help support urinary tract and kidney health**
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Is often found in “water pill” formulations**
What is Uva Ursi?
Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), also known as bearberry, is a creeping low-lying woody shrub. It has thick, glossy evergreen leaves, clusters of hanging pink bell-shaped flowers, and red cranberry-like berries that are actually drupes. These berries are what earned this plant its moniker; “uva ursi” is Latin for “grape of the bear”. Popular in gardens as groundcover, uva ursi has seen extensive use by herbalists for thousands of years.
Thought to have originated in the Iberian Peninsula, uva ursi has since been introduced to central Europe, Scandinavia, Siberia, the Himalayas, and even North America. The catalyst for its widespread use can be thanks in part to Marco Polo, who reported the use of uva ursi in the 13th century and helped bring the herb to western Europe. The plant has been extensively used by Chinese herbalists for a variety of health benefits for thousands of years, and Native Americans used the leaves to make a bitter tea to support urinary tract wellness.**
Uva Ursi Supplements
Uva ursi contains naturally-occurring nutrients such as tannins, flavonoids, enzymes, triterpenes, and glycoside arbutin, which is its main healthful compound. It has been traditionally used to support urinary tract wellness, kidney health, and cardiovascular health, and the tannins in uva ursi may impart some antioxidant activity.** Uva ursi supplements are typically available as capsules or liquid extracts, which deliver the healthy leaves in an easy-to-use form.
PipingRock’s Uva Ursi Leaf supplements deliver 960 mg of bearberry leaves in each serving. Adults take two (2) quick release capsules two to three times daily with meals for optimal nutritional support. It should be noted that uva ursi is not intended for prolonged use.
Directions for Use
Always consult with your trusted healthcare provider prior to adding any dietary supplement to your daily regimen. There is no set recommended daily allowance for uva ursi, however, doses typically range between 480 and 2,880 mg taken daily with meals. If you are pregnant, nursing, have renal disease or digestive disorders or taking any medications, consult your doctor before use. If any adverse reactions occur, immediately stop using this product and consult your doctor. Uva ursi is not intended for prolonged use.
