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Also known as:
Bearberry
Uses:
• Cystitis
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Description:
Uva-ursi is a small plant found in Europe. It has small peculiarly-shaped
flowers, which some consider to resemble a bladder.
How it works:
Uva-ursi has urinary antiseptic properties by virtue of a glycoside known
as arbutin. The way this substance works in urinary tract infection is unique.
Arbutin is absorbed by the body and broken down to hydroquinone and glucose.
Hydroquinone is then excreted into the urine, where it exerts a direct antiseptic
action in the kidneys and bladder. This action is stronger in alkaline urine
so a fruit and vegetable based diet is recommended if UTIs are recurrent.
Additional advice:
Medical advice should be sought if there is any doubt as to the nature of
the problem, if there is blood in the urine or a fever is present. If symptoms
do not improve within 48 hours consult a Doctor.
