Bearberry

Uva-ursi is a small plant found in Europe. It has small peculiarly-shaped flowers, which some consider to resemble a bladder.

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.

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.