Uva Ursi has been used for centuries to promote the excretion of fluids, while at the same time exerting a powerful antiseptic action that helps to combat bacteria of the urinary tract. The arbutin content is a strong astringent and antiseptic that has a curative effect on disorders of the bladder, kidneys, spleen, liver, pancreas, and small intestine, and is also a tonic that strengthens and imparts tone to the urinary mucous membrane. Uva Ursi combats urethritis, prostatitis, vaginitis, chronic diarrhea and infection of the uterus, ureter, bladder and kidneys.

The ability of Uva Ursi to promote the excretion of fluids has made it valuable in reducing excess water weight or bloating. Moreover, it helps to reduce the accumulation of uric acid in the blood and promotes the flushing of wastes and toxins from the system, which helps to ease rheumatism and other diseases marked by the accumulation of acids and waste products, such as gout, arthritis, nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys) and kidney stones. There have been reports that Uva Ursi may also be helpful in dissolving kidney stones.

Current research shows that Uva Ursi may possess antiviral qualities that could be particularly effective against herpes and flu viruses.

Uva Ursi has shown promise in relieving Cardiac edema. As a diuretic, Uva Ursi appears to relieve the fluid accumulation and swelling of the limbs due to congestive heart failure (although not around the heart per se) and also in cases of pulmonary edema (excess water in the lungs). There are reports that Uva Ursi may also strengthen the heart muscle.

With regard to female health, Uva Ursi's tannins act as mild vasoconstrictors that help to reduce infection and inflammation after childbirth and are said to eliminate inflammation of the perineum if torn during delivery. The herb is used to treat vaginal discharge by reducing infection and has been given topically in Sitz baths following childbirth for relief of swelling, further bleeding and inflammation, and to prevent infection. The allantoin content in the herb soothes and accelerates the healing of irritated tissues.

Contraindications: Pregnant women, nursing women, and children under the age of twelve should not use Uva Ursi. The herb should not be used for more than one week at a time, and overall use should be limited to no more than five times during the year. Excessive amounts (many times the recommended dosage) should not be taken. People with chronic kidney disease, peptic ulcers, or duodenal ulcers should avoid this herb, and its use may aggravate gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Genesis 1 Nutrition is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent a medical or health condition. Before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider. Individual results may vary. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional health care provider.