VETERINARY HERBAL MEDICINE - Denes Natural Pet Care

VETERINARY HERB PROFILES
BEARBERRY
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Background
Bearberry is a small evergreen shrub with leathery oval shaped leaves that grows on
acid soils in Northern England, the Scottish Highlands and throughout Europe. The
name of the plant is derived from two Greek words; arktos meaning a bear and
staphyl meaning grapes. It is said, that in some countries, bears enjoy the small red
fruits and hence the name Bearberry. Some books will also list this herb by its other
common name, Uva-ursi.
Parts used
Leaves.
Constituents
• Glycosides (arbutin, ericolin)
• Tannins
• Organic acids
Medicinal actions
• Diuretic
Bearberry increases the output of urine from the kidneys. This has the effect of
helping to flush away debris and help prevent the build up of gravel or stones as
well as helping to prevent infections such as cystitis from occurring. This action also
serves to flush toxins and waste products from the kidneys.
• Demulcent
Demulcents help protect mucus membranes and will reduce inflammation and allow
healing. This is an especially important property with regard to helping treat chronic
cystitis where the bladder lining is damaged and needs an opportunity to heal.
• Anti-microbial, Urinary antiseptic
These actions will help treat and prevent urinary infections such as cystitis and can
help with some aspects of kidney disease.
• Astringent
The high tannin content of Bearberry is responsible for its astringent effect which has
the action of toning the lining of the urinary system and preventing some forms of
incontinence.
• Anti-lithic
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