The Nature’s way to treat UTI with UVA Ursi

Uva ursi remains one of the most important and commonly used urinary tract disinfectants in modern herbal medicine, widely used in the treatment of uncomplicated acute and recurrent urinary tract infections. In vitro studies using crude leaf preparations and extracts of uva ursi leaf have demonstrated mild antimicrobial activity against known UTI causing organisms, including C. albicans, E. coli, S. aureus, and Proteus vulgaris, and others.

Uva ursi possess diuretic, antiseptic, and astringent properties. Traditionally, it has been used for cystitis, urethritis, dysuria, pyelitis, lithuria, and, specifically, acute catarrhal cystitis with dysuria and highly acidic urine (British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, 1983; Wren, 1988). The antiseptic and diuretic properties claimed for uva ursi can be attributed to its hydroquinone derivatives, especially the constituent arbutin. Arbutin is absorbed intact from the gastrointestinal tract and during renal excretion is hydrolyzed to yield the active principle, hydroquinone, which exerts antiseptic and astringent actions on the urinary mucous membranes

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial, 57 women with more than three episodes of cystitis in the previous year received UVA ursi extract or placebo. Treatment for 1 month significantly reduced the recurrence of cystitis during the 1-year follow-up, with no cystitis in the treated group and 23% recurrence in the placebo group. No adverse effects were reported .It should be noted that alkaline urine is necessary for arbutin to work.

Regular use may prevent bladder infections. Uva-ursi increases susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotics such as β-lactams.

Some authors postulate that a reduced urinary pH inhibits the efficacy of the herb; others argue that increasing the alkalinity of the urinary environment enhances the efficacy of the herb, while still others state that activity is not dependent on urinary pH

The question of whether this herb is safe for use in pregnancy is difficult to definitely answer based on the available evidence. Not to be used in pregnancy, a caution that is reiterated by many authorities. However, the reasons for contraindication are variable and not well supported, ranging from alleged uterotonic and oxytocic activity to “theoretical fetotoxicity.”