How to Use Uva Ursi

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This wild-growing herb has been used for centuries to improve urinary tract issues and resolve bladder infections. Flush away bad bacteria quickly and naturally with various forms of uva ursi.

Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the strength or effectiveness of herbal supplements. Brands may vary in dosage and strength. Always check with a physician before starting an herbal regimen.

Step 1: Take capsules
Take uva ursi capsules by mouth as directed. Capsules are generally 400 to 800 milligrams. Take two capsules up to four times daily and follow package directions.

Tip
Uva ursi is also called bearberry, as bears like to eat the plant's berries.

Step 2: Drink tea
Drink uva ursi tea. Simmer 1 tablespoon of dried leaves in 2 cups of water for 30 to 40 minutes. Strain, and drink 1/2 cup of the tea twice daily; sweeten the tea with with honey if desired.

Tip
Because of potentially dangerous side effects, uva ursi should not be given to children.

Step 3: Make tincture
Try an uva ursi tincture. Take six to 12 drops of the liquid tincture one to three times daily or dilute 1 teaspoon of the tincture in 1 cup of water. Uva ursi tincture, capsules, and tea can be found in natural food stores.

Tip
Until the development of sulfa antibiotics, uva ursi was a common treatment for bladder and related infections.

Step 4: Limit duration of use
Avoid using uva ursi for more than five consecutive days. Hydroquinone, a key chemical in uva ursi, can be toxic to the liver. Long-term use can cause serious liver damage.

Step 5: Know side effects
Know that side effects may include nausea and vomiting, irritability, and insomnia. Because uva ursi is alkaline, limit acidic foods like citrus, pineapple, and tomato when taking uva ursi.

Did You Know?
Sir Alexander Fleming accidentally discovered penicillin in 1928 after mold invaded his petri dish and killed the surrounding bacteria.